Gardening Tips: Hardy Summer Bulbs to Plant in Spring

Spring is the time to enjoy all of those hardy bulbs that were planted in the fall. The crocus, hyacinths, daffodils and tulips put on their gorgeous show and then disappear until next spring. But spring is not the only time to enjoy bulbs, since they flower in almost every season. There are several hardy summer bulbs that can be planted in the spring. They will flower a short while later in the season.

These are hardy summer bulbs and not to be confused with the tender bulbs. Hardy summer bulbs can withstand freezing temperatures and can be left in the ground or container during winter. Many hardy summer bulbs are actually rhizomes, tubers or corms. They all fall under the classification of geophytes, but this term is rarely used by gardeners.

This list contains hardy summer bulbs to plant in the spring for summer and autumn bloom. They can be planted later in the season as well, just don't expect them to flower with certainty. Sometimes packages of hardy summer bulbs, tubers, corms and rhizomes can be found after the peak planting season has passed. The price is often discounted and this is a great way to try unusual varieties of these hardy bulbs without spending much. As long as the leaves are left in place and the plant is otherwise healthy, patience will reward you with blossoms the next year.

Blackberry Lily (Belamcanda chinensis)

This is not a true lily and it's not a true bulb. It's a tough member of the Iris family and grows by rhizomes. The Blackberry Lily gets its nickname from the black seed pods that form following the flowers. It's a good choice for spring planting, but don't plant it deep. Just like the Irises' rhizome, these must be planted just barely below the soil surface.

The leaves of the Blackberry Lily look similar to those of the Iris. The Blackberry Lily blooms in the summer on tall stalks that are 2 to3-feet tall. The flowers are most commonly available in yellow, orange and yellow speckled, or red. This plant is not particular about soil and is heat and drought-tolerant. It's best to give adequate water when it's actively growing, but do not over water.