Start planning for summer: bulbs

Start planning for summer: bulbs

Although it sometimes feels we're in the midst of winter, it's time to think about how to infuse your garden with vibrant colours, fragrant blooms, and a lively atmosphere. Summer flowering bulbs are a fantastic way to achieve this, offering a spectrum of colours, shapes, and sizes that can transform any garden into a summer spectacle. At Thompson's Plant Centre, we are passionate about helping you find the perfect bulbs to create a dazzling display from late spring through to autumn.

Why choose Summer Flowering Bulbs?

Summer flowering bulbs are not only beautiful but also incredibly versatile. They can be planted in borders, containers, and even amongst perennial plants to provide a burst of colour when other plants are fading. From the striking gladioli to the exotic lilies, there’s a bulb to suit every garden theme and style.

What is so nice about summer flowering bulbs?

  • Extended Blooming: Many summer bulbs bloom for extended periods, ensuring your garden remains vibrant all summer long.
  • Variety: With an array of colours, sizes, and flowering times, you can curate a garden that’s in constant evolution.
  • Wildlife Friendly: Many summer bulbs are excellent for attracting bees, butterflies, and other beneficial pollinators, enhancing the biodiversity of your garden.

Thompson's Top Picks for Summer Flowering Bulbs

While we encourage you to visit your local Thompson's branch to see our full range, here are a few favourites to inspire your summer garden:

  1. Dahlias: With their unmatched variety in colour and form, dahlias are show-stoppers that bloom until the first frosts.
  2. Gladioli: Tall and majestic, gladioli add height and drama to borders and make excellent cut flowers.
  3. Lilies: Fragrant and elegant, lilies come in many varieties, offering striking blooms that are sure to impress.
  4. Begonias: Perfect for shaded areas, begonias provide continuous colour throughout summer in beds or containers.
  5. Crocosmia: With their arching stems and fiery colours, crocosmia add movement and vibrancy to any garden setting.

Caring for Your Summer Flowering Bulbs

  • Planting Time: Most summer flowering bulbs are planted in spring after the last frost. Check specific bulb requirements as planting times can vary.
  • Location: Choose a location based on the bulb's light requirements—full sun or partial shade.
  • Soil Preparation: Ensure good drainage and enrich the soil with compost or well-rotted manure for the best start.
  • Watering: Keep the soil moist, especially during dry periods, but avoid waterlogging.
  • Aftercare: Deadhead flowers where necessary and allow foliage to die back naturally to feed the bulb for next year's display.

Visit Thompson's for Your Summer Bulb Needs

While our summer flowering bulbs are not available for purchase online, we warmly invite you to visit your local Thompson's branch. Our knowledgeable staff are on hand to guide you through our extensive range and offer advice on how to create a stunning summer garden. Remember, the key to a breathtaking display is not just the flowers themselves but the passion and care you bring to your gardening journey.

Find your Thompson's Branch

Embrace Summer with Thompson's

Summer flowering bulbs offer a unique opportunity to bring life, colour, and fragrance to your garden. By choosing the right bulbs and providing them with a little care and attention, you can enjoy a magnificent garden that thrives throughout the summer months. Visit us at Thompson's Plant Centre, where we're dedicated to helping you make the most of your garden this summer and beyond.