Spring Planting, Summer Flowering Bulbs

Summer bulbs stand apart because they are planted in spring and grow on into the warm months, giving you sustained colour when many spring bulbs have faded.

Lightly scented and joyfully colourful, freesias are a gardener’s favourite for both beds and cutting. Their elegant stems and billowing petals create a mood of sunshine and celebration.

If vertical impact is what you’re after, gladioli deliver. Tall, structured spikes of flowers make these bulbs perfect for mixed borders, dramatic garden backdrops, or bold rows in containers. They’re also excellent for cutting — long stems and striking hues bring summer indoors.

Lily stargazer bulbs are a showstopper. Large blooms with rich, vibrant colours and a sweet scent elevate any garden border or patio pot. They are equally stunning cut for arrangements.

For a lighter, more delicate touch, anemones offer bright, poppy-like blooms. They’re ideal for cottage borders and informal plantings, and their graceful colours add softness to summer schemes.

Plant in well-prepared soil once the risk of frost has passed. Choose a sunny position for best flowering and water regularly once growth begins. Use quality compost and good drainage in containers.