There are several types of bulbs known as “tender bulbs”, which need be planted in your gardens and containers in the spring for summer flowers and interest.
These bulbs are not cold hardy enough to withstand our Vermont winters, but will thrive in the summer Landscape if treated like annuals. They are great in containers for decks & patios as well.
These “tender bulbs” include:
- Gladiolas
- Oriental & Asiatic Lilies
- Caladium
- Canna Lilies
- Elephant Ears
- Calla Lilies
- Dahlias
It is safe to plant these bulbs when there is no longer a threat of frost, the ground has warmed up and dried out some. A good rule of thumb is to plant them when you think it’s safe to plant your vegetable garden. Be sure to plant them in a sunny well-drained area. In general bulbs need to be planted as deep as three times their diameter. Some bulbs may have more specific instructions, which you will find on the package they come in. An all-purpose fertilizer that is low in nitrogen or compost should be applied to the soil when planting. It is important to keep the plants well watered, allowing them to dry out slightly between waterings.
