If you dream of a garden full of vibrant summer blooms, it all starts beneath your feet — with good soil preparation. Different summer bulbs have different needs, but a little care before planting goes a long way toward spectacular results.
General Soil Preparation
Start by clearing the area of weeds and debris. Loosen the soil with a fork to improve drainage — most bulbs hate soggy conditions. Incorporate plenty of organic matter like compost or well-rotted manure to enrich the soil.
Tailoring to Specific Bulbs
- Lilies prefer a slightly acidic, well-drained soil. Adding some sand and peat moss can help if your soil tends toward heavy clay.
- Gladioli thrive in a sunny spot with rich, slightly sandy soil. A handful of bone meal in each planting hole will encourage strong roots.
- Dahlias love a fertile, neutral to slightly alkaline soil. Mix in compost and a slow-release fertiliser to support their heavy flowering habits.
Timing is Crucial
Plant summer bulbs after all danger of frost has passed and the soil has warmed up — typically from mid to late spring. Bulbs should be planted at a depth roughly three times their height, and spaced well apart to avoid competition.
Pro tip: Mulching after planting helps retain moisture and suppress weeds, giving your bulbs the best start possible.