Spring bulbs will soon fade, and the foliage of hardy summer bulbs will start to emerge. Even though it may be tempting, do not remove foliage from the faded spring bulbs that have past their prime. These leaves are necessary for photosynthesis to occur which will produce carbohydrates to be stored in the bulb for next year’s flower production. Do, however, remove old blooms from the spring bulbs; this will allow the plant to send energy toward rebuilding the bulb instead of producing seeds.
Once the fear of frost has past, hardy summer bulbs, such as dahlias, lilies, cannas, and gladiolus, can be planted. This is typically around April 15th in the upstate, but watch the forecast in your region for a better estimation. Select a planting location with well-drained soil and the amount of sun or shade best for the bulb species. For more information, see HGIC 1155, Spring-Flowering Bulbs, and HGIC 1156, Summer- and Fall- Flowering Bulbs.
Oriental Lilies have large, ornate flowers, usually in white, pink, or rose with an intense fragrance.
Barbara Smith, ©2018 HGIC, Clemson Extension
Tiger Lily (Lilium lancifolium ‘Flore Pleno’) has double flowers.
Barbara Smith, ©2018 HGIC, Clemson Extension
Asiatic Lilies generally have unscented flowers ranging from the softest pastel colors to fiery reds and oranges.
Millie Davenport, HGIC 2018 HGIC, Clemson Extension
Glory Lily is a climbing vine with yellow and red flowers.
Millie Davenport, HGIC 2018 HGIC, Clemson Extension
Canna ‘Cleopatra’ has yellow flowers with red spots, and dark green foliage with bronze red variegation.
Millie Davenport, HGIC 2018 HGIC, Clemson Extension
Gladiolus are often grown as cut flowers and are available in a wide array of colors.
Millie Davenport, HGIC 2018 HGIC, Clemson Extension
Tuberous begonias have 2- to 4- inch wide flowers in shades of white, yellow, orange, rose, red, or pink.
Millie Davenport, HGIC 2018 HGIC, Clemson Extension
