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Summer-Flowering Bulbs
Summer-flowering bulbs are in stock and we have some beautiful new varieties this year.
Unlike Spring-flowering bulbs (like tulips, daffodils, and hyacinths) that need to be planted in the Fall, Summer-flowering bulbs, like dahlias, gladiolus, and lilies, are planted in the spring. They are a great way to have continuous color in your garden all season long.
As soon as the ground warms up and the threat of frost is gone it’s time to plant.
A few rules of thumb when planting Summer-flowering bulbs are:
- Plant bulbs at a depth that is 3 times the width of the bulb. So if your bulb is 2 inches wide, dig a hole that is 6 inches deep.
- Amend your soil with manure or compost to create well-draining soil. Bulbs can start to mold if they sit in wet or soggy soil.
- After planting, be sure to water the area thoroughly. Allow the soil to dry out between watering.
- More than 180 varieties of flowers, foliage and vegetables available:
- 9 types of Begonias
- 12 types of Blends
- 7 types of Caladiums
- 7 types of Calla Lilies
- 9 types of Cannas
- 75 types of Dahlias
- 9 types of Elephant Ears
- 9 types of Fruits and Berries
- 19 types of Gladiolus
- 21 types of Lilies
- 31 types of Specialty Bulbs
- 20 types of Vegetable Bulbs
New for 2025
- 10 Types of Farmers Market
- 27 Types of Proven Winners Bulbs
Since most summer-flowering bulbs are considered annuals, it’s important to dig up the bulbs before a killing frost in the fall and store them in a cool, dry place during winter. English Gardens stores will also have garden-ready plants available in late April and May. Visit one of our Metro Detroit locations today!
How to Start Summer-Flowering Bulbs Indoors
Planting from bulbs or tubers is more economical than purchasing finished plants, and you have a larger selection of varieties which from to select.
To start bulbs indoors, use 6-inch or 8-inch pots, a lightweight planting soil, bulbs, and plant labels. Read the directions for planting on each bulb package. The general rule is three times the depth of the height of the bulb. For Dahlia tubers, do not plant the crown deeper than the soil level.
Once the bulbs are planted, thoroughly water them. This will help signal to the dormant “bulb” it is time to spring to life. At this stage, pots need warmth and water.
When new growth begins to emerge, watch carefully. Treat them like houseplants when it comes to watering, allowing them to dry out a little before watering again. Fertilize twice a month with a water-soluble fertilizer.
When the first leaves are BEGINNING to separate from the shoot, move the plants to a bright, but indirectly lit window. Plants should not be planted outdoors until the danger of frost has passed. But they can still get some quality time outdoors. Bulbs can visit outside if the temperatures don’t dip below 50 degrees. Never expose them to frost! Overnight exposure is out of the question, unless it is in the garage, and the temperature will not drop below 45 degrees. It is best to wait until May for any overnight trips.
Put large pots on casters so you can easily move them out of the elements each night.
Continue to fertilize and expose plants to the outdoors. When the weather allows, usually mid to late May, move your pots outdoors permanently or transplant them into the garden. Stake the plants if necessary, but be careful not to damage the bulb!
Remember, do not allow the plants to be exposed to frost, or all of your hard work will be undone! If frost is predicted, cover the plants with rose cones or frost guard fabric.
The best part of starting your bulbs indoors is you get to enjoy them sooner! Follow these few simple steps and you will have beautiful summer flowers.
Watch our video for more information.