Order Summer Bulbs

AS SOON AS DAFFODILS trumpet the approach of spring, it’s time to order summer bulbs. These prolific bloomers can take the heat ahead, and many multiply (or naturalize) over time. Some favorites include Crocosmia, a South Africa native with blade foliage and scarlet, orange or yellow flowers on tall stems; spider lily (Lycoris), bold blooms that range from yellow and white to hot orange-red with spidery stamens on leafless flower stalks; Crinum, naked lady relatives with fragrant flowers in solid colors and stripes on tall stalks; tuberose (Polianthes tuberosa), perfumers’ favorite with highly scented flowers on 3-foot stems; and gayfeather (Liatris spicata), showy purple, lilac and white flowers on stems up to 4 feet tall. Look for all at specialty nurseries and online retailers, including Oceanside’s Easy to Grow Bulbs.

Garden Planner: By Mary James