How to Plant and Care for Summer Bulbs

Planting

• Plant in groups of 3+ for clump effect.
• General rule: depth = 3 × bulb's widest diameter.
• Exceptions: Dahlias need 1-foot-deep holes, several feet wide. Add loose soil, plant tuber, cover with 3 inches soil, water. Gradually fill hole as shoots grow.
• Plant pointed side up, root side down; if unsure, plant sideways.

Fertilizing

1. Add high-phosphorus bulb food at planting for root development.
2. Feed with all-purpose fertilizer when growth starts.
3. Feed again after flowering if replanting next year.

Winter Storage (Where Needed)

In frost-free areas, bulbs can overwinter in ground. Otherwise:

• Dig after leaves die back. Remove dried foliage and soil.
• Dry in shade on newspaper for a few days.
• Bulbs with tunics (glads, crocosmias): store in baskets, boxes, or mesh bags.
• Others: store between layers of vermiculite, sand, or peat moss.
• Keep cool, dry, and protected from temperature extremes.