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Cornell University : Cornell Cooperative Extension
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| Yates Association |
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Spring Planting Summer Bulbs |
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The addition
of summer flowering bulbs to the home landscape adds not only beauty
but interest. They are easy to grow and can be saved and planted year
after year. They can be planted directly in beds or may be grown in
containers. A wide choice is possible in the kinds of summer bulbs
available. Tuberous begonias: The tubers can be planted directly in the garden about mid-May. Select an area that is well drained and partially shaded. Set the tubers in the ground so they are just covered and no deeper as they are subject to rotting. To allow for growing space and air circulation, space the tubers or plants 18 to 24 inches apart. It may be necessary to stake the young plants as many of the larger growing cultivars (varieties) become top heavy in bloom. Apply
a fertilizer such as 5-10-5 at the rate of 3 to 4 pounds per 100 square
feet at monthly intervals. Water when the soil starts to dry, preferably
in the morning or early afternoon. Canna:
The rhizomes (underground stems) can be planted directly in the garden.
Usually they are planted directly in the garden about the middle of
May. Select a spot that is well drained and receives full sunlight.
The rhizomes should be planted a couple of inches below the surface
and 18 to 24 inches apart. Water thoroughly after planting and begin
fertilizing as soon as the shoots come through the ground. Use a dry
complete fertilizer such as 5-10-5. Apply once a month during the
growing season and water thoroughly after application. Water the plants
when the soil begins to dry and stake if necessary. Gladiolus: If care is given to a planting schedule, flowers can be available from early summer until frost. Therefore, it is advisable to separate the corms into various planting dates so flowering can be spread out. The first corms can be planted as early as May 1. Set the corms 4 to 5 inches deep and 5 to 6 inches apart. If they are grown in rows, allow 36 inches between the rows. In two weeks, plant the next group of corms and continue this procedure until the last of July. By so planting, flowers will be available almost anytime during the summer. As soon as the plants are 6 to 8 inches tall, apply a complete dry fertilizer such as 5-10-5. This is the only fertilizer that will be needed during the growing season. Water the plants thoroughly when the soil starts to get dry. Cornell
Cooperative Extension Yates Association |
