If you’re eager to fill your garden with vibrant color as quickly as possible, choosing the right bulbs is essential. Many spring-planted bulbs take months to flower, but some bloom in just a few weeks, brightening up your garden in no time. Below are 10 of the best quick-flowering bulbs to plant in spring for a fast and beautiful summer display.
1. Gladiolus (Blooms in 60-90 Days)
Gladiolus bulbs, also known as corms, produce tall spikes of showy flowers in a variety of colors. These easy-to-grow bulbs thrive in well-drained soil and full sun, making them perfect for borders or cutting gardens. For a continuous bloom throughout summer, plant new bulbs every two weeks.
2. Dahlia (Blooms in 8-10 Weeks)
Dahlias are a favorite among gardeners for their dazzling, multi-petaled blooms. Some smaller varieties start flowering in as little as eight weeks, bringing bright, long-lasting color to your beds and borders. For best results, plant in rich soil with plenty of sunlight.
3. Freesia (Blooms in 10-12 Weeks)
Freesias are beloved for their strong fragrance and elegant, funnel-shaped blooms. They thrive in well-draining soil and prefer full sun to partial shade. Their stunning flowers make them a great addition to both garden beds and container displays.
4. Begonia (Blooms in 10-12 Weeks)
For shaded areas of your garden, begonias are a top choice. These bulbs produce lush, long-lasting flowers in a variety of colors, and they thrive in containers, hanging baskets, or garden beds. Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged for best growth.
5. Liatris (Blazing Star) (Blooms in 70-90 Days)
Liatris spicata is a hardy, drought-tolerant bulb that attracts pollinators like butterflies and bees. With its tall, purple flower spikes, this easy-to-grow perennial adds vertical interest to garden beds. It flourishes in full sun and well-drained soil.
6. Acidanthera (Peacock Orchid) (Blooms in 8-10 Weeks)
Peacock orchids produce delicate, white, star-shaped flowers with a deep maroon center. These fragrant flowers thrive in sunny locations and make excellent cut flowers. They prefer well-drained soil and moderate watering.
7. Tigridia (Tiger Flower) (Blooms in 8-12 Weeks)
Also known as the Mexican Shell Flower, Tigridia produces vibrant, exotic-looking blooms in shades of pink, red, yellow, and orange. Each flower lasts only a day, but the plant produces many buds over several weeks, providing a continuous display.
8. Calla Lily (Blooms in 8-12 Weeks)
Calla lilies are known for their graceful, trumpet-shaped flowers. They thrive in both garden beds and containers, preferring rich, moist soil. Their elegant blooms make them a favorite for floral arrangements as well.
9. Crocosmia (Blooms in 10-12 Weeks)
Crocosmia, also known as Montbretia, produces striking, arching sprays of red, orange, or yellow flowers. These sun-loving bulbs are drought-resistant and attract hummingbirds and bees. They grow well in borders, mixed beds, or containers.
10. Canna Lily (Blooms in 10-12 Weeks)
Canna lilies bring a tropical flair to the garden with their bold, colorful blooms and lush foliage. These heat-loving plants thrive in sunny spots with moist, well-draining soil. Perfect for adding height and drama to any flower bed.
Plant Now for a Summer Full of Blooms!
By choosing these quick-flowering bulbs, you won’t have to wait long to enjoy a vibrant, flower-filled garden. Whether you’re planting in beds, borders, or containers, these bulbs will reward you with a stunning summer display.
