Refresh your outdoor space with these flowering plants

The season of renewal has sprung, bringing with it fresh beginnings and new life. With the warmer weather rolling in, gardeners excitedly head outside to begin highly anticipated garden projects, like planting their favourite summer-blooming flower bulbs. Dahlias, Zantedeschia, Gladioli, Amaryllis and Hemerocallis are all popular flowering plants, each requiring a specific planting process and care regimen. Will you plant any of these fragrant beauties in your spring garden? If so, follow our tips below for a sensational season of growth, and colourful summer ahead! (Explore our range of flower bulbs here.)

5 spring bulbs for glorious flowering plants in summer:

1. Dahlias

Why we love them

Dahlias are so full of life – the perfect representation of this time of year! We love them for their vast array of colours and full, pom-pom like blooms. And with over 30 varieties to choose from, it’s no wonder they are a favourite in South African gardens. Browse our selection of Dahlia bulbs online.

How to plant them

You should plant your Dahlias in late spring, in an area of your garden that receives full sun. Be sure to plant them in sandy soil that drains well, as the tubers tend to be susceptible to root rot. Take a look at our blog all about Dahlias where we break down the seven-step planting process for you.

How to care for them

Dahlias need very little care prior to sprouting. In fact, it’s best to avoid watering them completely until you notice the little green shoots starting to surface. At this point, you can water them liberally about three times a week. Click here for in-depth Dahlia care tips and fertilising recommendations.

2. Zantedeschia

Why we love them

Luscious and delicate-looking Zantedeschia blooms are a stunning addition to flower beds. But we love them most as cut flowers – their vase life extends up to two weeks! Shop Zantedeschia bulbs now.

How to plant them

Plant Zantedeschia bulbs in early spring, in cool areas of your garden that receive full sun to partial shade. Make sure the spot you choose has plenty of moist, nutrient-rich soil so the bulbs can grow optimally. Ready to plant some Zantedeschia bulbs? Here’s how: 

• Dig holes about 5cm deep, spacing them about 15cm apart.
• Place the bulbs in the holes with the growing tips facing upward.
• Fill the holes with soil and water thoroughly.

How to care for them

Once your Zantedeschia bulbs are established, you’ll want to make sure they are properly cared for. Follow these tips for promoting healthy growth:

• Add some mulch to the site to encourage the soil's water retention.
• Water the bulbs regularly so the soil is always moist (but not soggy) – we recommend about three times per week.
• Feed your Zantedeschia plants with a balanced liquid fertiliser every two weeks.
• When the flowers fade, stop fertilising and remove the flower stems.

3. Gladioli

Why we love them

We’re always glad to see Gladioli in flower beds and vases! We love their cheery colours and impressive displays, especially when paired with complementing flowers of other species. Click here for flower arrangement inspiration. 

How to plant them

Gladioli need plenty of sunshine and grow best in well-draining, nutrient-rich soil. We recommend adding a layer of compost to the soil before starting the planting process, as follows:

• Dig holes about 5cm deep and 12cm apart from one another.
• Place the bulbs in each hole and cover with soil.
• Once the bulb shoots reach a height of about 15cm, start hilling the soil to support the stems. 

How to care for them

Gladiolus bulbs require special care to grow into vibrant flowering plants. Keep these tips in mind when caring for yours over the spring and summer months:

• Apply a water-soluble fertiliser to the flower bed, about 10cm away from each stem.
• Add mulch regularly to prevent weed growth around the stems.
• Water the bulbs frequently – about once or twice a week should do.
• Add a stake next to each stem to support them as they grow.

4. Amaryllis

Why we love them

The Amaryllis, or ‘Christmas flower’ is as merry and bright as its name suggests. We love its over-sized, colourful blooms, especially in shades of red and cream during the festive season. Explore our range of Amaryllis bulbs online. 

How to plant them

Amaryllis plants need well-draining soil and sunshine. Adding a little compost to their flower beds will ensure they grow into lush and lively flowering plants. If you’re keen to grow some bulbs, follow these simple steps for planting Amaryllis outdoors:

• Loosen the soil to about 30cm deep.
• Dig shallow holes for the bulbs, spacing them about 10cm apart from one another.
• Place the bulbs with the roots facing down, ensuring the necks remain above the soil.
• Fill the holes with soil and water well.

How to care for them

Like all flower bulbs, Amaryllis need a little TLC to keep them blooming and looking beautiful. If you plant yours in pots, remember to move them into a spot that receives full sun throughout the day – and be sure to keep them out of drafty areas. Click here for Amaryllis care tips for glowing seasonal stars.

5. Hemerocallis

Why we love them

We love a fiery splash of floral colour, and the yellow, orange and burgundy blooms of the Hemerocallis sure are hard to miss! Even though the flowers only bloom for a day, they appear in abundance throughout the summer months – so you’re guaranteed a constant display.

How to plant them

Sunshine and well-draining, nutrient-rich soil are important for healthy Hemerocallis growth. Ensure the spot you choose for your Hemerocallis bulbs receives at least six hours of direct sunlight per day, and plant them as follows:

• Dig shallow holes of 3cm deep about 10cm away from one another. 
• Place the bulbs in the holes, ensuring they sit about 2cm below the soil. 
• Cover the bulbs with soil and water thoroughly.

How to care for them

When it comes to Hemerocallis bulb care, mulch is a must! Adding a layer of bark and straw to the flower beds after watering will aid in the soil’s water retention, allowing the bulbs to receive adequate moisture while preventing weed growth. Interesting to note, Hemerocallis plants do not require fertiliser – just a yearly douse of compost. Learn how to create a compost heap in your backyard.

Enjoy flowering plants all year round

Have we inspired you to grow your own flowering plants for a colourful season ahead? Visit our online store to shop all your favourite summer-blooming bulbs, and get ready for a summer like none other!