The soil is warming up in May, making it the ideal time for planting summer-blooming bulbs. Planting them in May allows them to establish strong roots, giving them the best chance to thrive in the warmer months ahead. Plus, you’ll enjoy flowers through the summer and even into fall.
Here Are 15 Beautiful Bulbs You Can Plant This May to Transform Your Garden:
1. Gladiolus
Gladiolus bulbs produce tall, vibrant spikes of flowers in a wide variety of colors. They thrive in sunny spots and require well-drained soil. These elegant blooms are perfect for adding height and a dramatic flair to your garden.
2. Dahlias
Dahlias are popular for their bold and colorful flowers. Whether you choose large, showy blooms or smaller varieties, dahlias are a must-have for any summer garden. Plant them in May to ensure they bloom later in the summer.
3. Lilies
Lilies are a classic choice for summer gardens. With their large, fragrant flowers, they add beauty and elegance to any space. Plant them now, and you’ll enjoy their stunning blooms throughout the summer.
4. Tuberous Begonias
These begonias have beautiful, hanging flowers that come in a range of vibrant colors. They do well in shaded areas and are great for container gardening.
5. Cannas
Cannas are perfect for adding a tropical touch to your garden. These plants grow large, colorful flowers and thrive in sunny, warm conditions. Plant them in May to enjoy their stunning blooms during the summer months.
6. Calla Lilies
Known for their graceful, trumpet-shaped flowers, calla lilies make an elegant addition to any garden. They are excellent for planting in pots or along the edges of flower beds.
7. Crocosmia
Crocosmia bulbs produce striking orange and red flowers that attract hummingbirds and butterflies. These plants grow in clumps and are great for adding vibrant colors to your garden.
8. Gloriosa Lilies
Gloriosa lilies are exotic and striking, with their upward-facing flowers. These unique bulbs add drama and sophistication to your garden. Plant them in May for blooms that last into late summer.
9. Crocus
While crocus bulbs typically bloom in early spring, some varieties bloom in late spring. If you plant them in May, you’ll get a pop of early summer color.
10. Freesia
Freesias are known for their sweet fragrance and beautiful flowers. They do well in sunny areas with well-drained soil, and their vibrant colors will brighten up your garden.
11. Summer Snowflake
These delicate, white flowers resemble snowdrops and bloom in mid to late summer. They are easy to grow and work well in any garden.
12. Tulips
While tulips are typically associated with spring, there are varieties that bloom in late spring and early summer. Plant them in May for blooms that will last into the warmer months.
13. Alliums
Alliums are known for their spherical flower heads that add a unique texture to any garden. They are low-maintenance and thrive in well-drained soil and sunny spots.
14. Iris
Iris plants have striking flowers in shades of purple, blue, and white. They thrive in full sun and add vertical interest to your garden.
15. Ranunculus
Ranunculus bulbs produce clusters of colorful, rose-like flowers. These plants are great for adding vibrant color to your garden in late spring and early summer.
6 Bulbs That Won’t Bloom Until Next Year:
While May is an excellent time to plant summer-blooming bulbs, there are a few types of bulbs that won’t bloom until the following year. These bulbs need a longer growing season or require more time to establish strong roots before they bloom. Here are six bulbs you can plant in May that will bloom next year:
1. Tulips (Certain Varieties)
While some tulips bloom in late spring and summer, certain varieties require more time and may not bloom until the following year. Plant them now to enjoy their blooms next year.
2. Lilies (Certain Varieties)
Similar to tulips, some varieties of lilies need an extended growing season. These bulbs will establish their roots this year and reward you with beautiful blooms the following summer.
3. Hyacinths
Hyacinths require a longer growing season to develop their distinctive fragrance and colorful flowers. Plant them in May, and you can expect them to bloom in the following year.
4. Snowdrops
These charming little flowers typically bloom in late winter or early spring. However, if you plant them in May, you’ll have to wait until the next year for their delicate white blooms.
5. Scilla
Scilla bulbs produce small, bell-shaped flowers in shades of blue. While they can bloom in the late spring or early summer, they often need more time to establish roots and may not bloom until next year.
6. Fritillaria
Fritillaria bulbs are known for their unique, bell-shaped flowers. While they require a longer growing period, planting them in May will lead to a beautiful bloom the following year.
Conclusion
May is the perfect time to plant bulbs for a gorgeous summer garden. From vibrant gladiolus and dahlias to elegant lilies and canna lilies, your garden will burst with color and beauty. Don’t forget to include some bulbs that will bloom next year to enjoy a perennial display of flowers. With the right bulbs, your garden can be a beautiful oasis all year long.
Deepak Grover is a dedicated content writer at OTE News, specializing in government affairs, public policy, and current events. With a keen eye for detail and a passion for factual reporting, he ensures readers receive accurate and insightful news. Deepak holds a degree in Political Science and has experience in research-driven journalism.
When not writing, he enjoys reading historical books, exploring hiking trails, and staying updated with global political trends. His commitment to ethical journalism makes him a trusted voice at OTE News.