Accent Annual Guide

When most people think of flowering bulbs, visions of dazzling spring gardens come to mind—but accent annual bulbs also provide stunning summer interest. These heat-loving plants thrive in beds, borders, containers, or hanging baskets, bringing ample color and texture all season. Here's what you need to know about growing these vibrant summer bloomers:

Planting Accent Annuals in Spring

When to Plant: Plant summer-blooming bulbs after all danger of frost has passed in the spring.

How to Plant: Follow the directions on the package for planting depth as well as sun and water requirements. Place the bulb in the ground with the roots down (it should be pretty obvious), and apply a granular slow-release fertilizer at root depth to keep your plants fed and happy. Water after planting, ensuring that you're following the moisture requirements of each plant.

Accent Annual Growing Tips

How to Keep the Color Coming: You can keep the flowers coming by deadheading or harvesting blooms for bouquets. You may also use a liquid fertilizer regularly throughout the growing season to encourage more growth.

End-of-Season Care: Most summer-blooming bulbs are not winter hardy in colder regions, so gardeners can either leave them in the ground and treat them as annuals or lift and store them for the following year. Some species also make lovely houseplants!

Accent Annual Design Tips

• Don't overlook containers when planting your summer-blooming bulbs. It’s an easy way to add color to porches and patios or drop in bare spots in the landscape.
• Consider interplanting in gardens for season-long displays in sun or shade.
• Many types of summer-blooming bulbs make breathtaking additions to the cutting garden and can be planted in groups, rows, or simply sprinkled around.