When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. Here’s how it works.
Now we’re approaching the spring gardening season and watching the first of this year’s bulbs peaking through the soil, there’s no time to relax.
March has arrived, so grab your best gardening gloves and get planting once more to enjoy color through the seasons.
With bright yellow daffodils and multi-colored tulips to behold in spring, we can continue to bring vibrancy to our yards with summer bulbs. Not only will they bring color to your garden scheme, but there are plenty of summer flowering bulbs that will add a delicate vibe and a touch of fragrance, if you so choose.
Here are 7 bulbs to plant in March for summer blooms. You might also be interested in 7 bulb planting mistakes and what to do instead.
Agapanthus is one of my favorites, although I have quite a few. Also known as the African Lily, it has a stunning appearance. Julian Palphramand, Head of Plants at British Garden Centres, says, “It produces attractive clusters of dark blue, star-shaped flowers that are beautifully displayed on tall and upright stalks.
Apart from the magnificent blooms, the plant has lush green leaves, which Palphramand says complement the bold flowers.
March is an ideal time to plant bulbs for a beautiful spring and summer display With the right timing and bulb selection, your garden can burst into color when warmer weather arrives This guide will provide tips on planting bulbs in March and highlight the best varieties to grow.
Why Plant Bulbs in March?
March offers the perfect soil temperatures for planting most bulbs. The ground is warming up but still cool which encourages root growth without premature sprouting.
Bulbs planted too early may sprout before the ground freezes. Bulbs planted too late won’t have time to develop roots to anchor them. A soil temperature between 40-55°F is optimal. This usually occurs in March for most regions.
Additionally, many bulbs benefit from early planting:
-
Daffodils do best planted in early fall, as they form roots quickly. An early March planting gives them time to establish.
-
Tulips prefer later planting, as cooler soil prevents fungal diseases. Mid to late March planting inhibits disease.
-
Summer bulbs like dahlias need ample time to sprout and grow before summer’s heat. Plant these in March for best results.
So March offers the ideal window to plant bulbs for spring through fall blossoms.
Best Spring Bulbs to Plant in March
Many classic spring bloomers can still be planted successfully in March:
Daffodils
Cheery daffodils thrive when planted in early March where late frosts are uncommon. Well-drained soil and full sun are ideal. These bulbs naturalize readily, returning yearly and multiplying.
Tulips
Plant tulips in mid to late March for vivid spring color. The later planting helps deter diseases. Provide well-drained soil and sunlight for best growth. Add organic matter to improve drainage in heavy soils.
Hyacinths
Fragrant hyacinths flourish when planted in March. Part sun with well-drained soil is optimal. Plant bulbs 3 times as deep as their height. Their dense blooms and fragrance make hyacinths perfect for gardens or containers.
Crocuses
Early blooming crocuses poke through the snow, signaling spring’s arrival. Plant bulbs in March at a depth of 3 inches. Crocuses thrive in full sun and multiply readily to form colorful carpets.
Snowdrops
Delicate yet sturdy snowdrops bloom early when planted in March. They prefer moist, well-drained soil and partial shade. Snowdrops naturalize easily, creating grassy carpets.
Grape Hyacinths
Plant grape hyacinths in March for charming spring flowers. They prosper in sun or light shade with well-drained soil. These hardy bulbs spread readily, creating lush carpets of color. Their unique shape adds texture to gardens.
Other Spring Bulbs
Other spring bulbs to plant in March include alliums, anemones, scilla, lilies, fritillaria, iris, and more. Research specific planting needs, but most thrive when planted in March.
Best Summer Bulbs to Plant in March
Get a head start on summer color by planting these bulbs in March:
Dahlias
Plant dahlia tubers in March for summer-long blossoms starting in June. Provide plenty of sun and well-drained soil. Start tubers indoors or in pots for earlier growth. Support tall varieties with stakes.
Gladioli
Give gladiolus a March start in pots or in ground after frost danger passes. Plant in full sun areas with well-drained soil. Stake these tall bloomers or surround with other plants for support.
Cannas
Plant canna rhizomes in March indoors or after frost risk ends outdoors. Cannas need abundant sun and consistent moisture for optimum flowering. Their huge leaves and bright blooms evoke the tropics.
Calla Lilies
Plant calla lily rhizomes in March for distinctive summer color. They thrive in bright, indirect light and well-drained soil. grouping bulbs together provides dramatic impact.
Other Summer Bulbs
Plant other summer bulbs like ranunculus, crocosmia, anemones, lilies, and alstroemeria in March for midsummer blossoms into fall.
How to Plant Bulbs in March
Follow these tips for planting spring and summer bulbs in March:
-
Soak dried bulbs like ranunculus, anemones, and crocus before planting to jumpstart growth.
-
Plant to proper depth, usually 2-3 times the bulb’s height. Consult planting instructions.
-
Place bulbs in loose, well-draining soil enriched with compost or fertilizer.
-
Plant bulbs pointed side up. Flat bottoms go down. If unsure, plant on its side.
-
Space bulbs properly to prevent overcrowding when they mature.
-
Water lightly after planting. Avoid soaking the bulbs.
-
Consider containers if garden space is limited. Use potting mix and containers with drainage.
Proper planting depth, spacing, drainage and sunlight will lead to success when planting bulbs in March. Follow planting directions and provide care as needed once bulbs are settled. With the right bulbs for your climate, March planting will yield a bounty of spring and summer blossoms.
Top tips when planting bulbs
Its always wise to check the planting instructions on your bulb packet, but here are three tips bulb planting tips to get you started.
1. Plant the bulb with the pointy side facing up.
2. Make a hole in the soil at least twice the depth of the bulb before covering it with soil.
3. The planting distance between bulbs will depend on the size and type of bulb. However, as a general rule, smaller corms, such as freesias should be planted 2-3 inches apart, while lilies should be planted 8-12 inches apart.
Sign up to get the BEST of Tom’s Guide direct to your inbo
Get instant access to breaking news, the hottest reviews, great deals and helpful tips. Contact me with news and offers from other Future brands Receive email from us on behalf of our trusted partners or sponsors
Plant agapanthus bulbs in spring once the chance of frost has passed, and in colder climates protect the roots with mulch. Agapanthus bulbs will do best in well-drained soil and enjoy full sun.
Alliums are similar to Agapanthus, as the flower is displayed upon a long stem. They are another statement flower, which has large, globe-shaped blooms.
“Their striking purple-blue pom pom and sphere flowers complement a wide range of summer flowers, and their tall stature makes them perfect for adding height and structure to the back of beds and borders, or as a focal point in a container through the summer months,” says Palphramand.Top tip
If your bulbs require well-drained soil, you can amend heavy soil by adding sand to improve drainage.
Planting tips
If you haven’t already planted allium bulbs in the fall, you can still plant them in March, although the roots won’t have as long to develop and the flowering period will be shorter during their first year.
Alliums will do best in rich, well-drained soil in full sun, and will also tolerate partial shade.
These garden gloves are made of nylon and nitrile and come in three sizes — small, medium and large. They offer excellent non-slip properties, are comfortable around the wrist, breathable and machine washable. At Toms Guide, we recommend them as the best overall gardening glove.
If you prefer to go bold with color, Crocosmia is a perfect choice with its vibrant orange flowers.
“These striking blooms adorn arching stems amidst swordlike green leaves and are suitable for beds, pots and containers,” says Palphramand.
He says that Crocosmia is a flexible flower, as it’s a hardy perennial, thrives in full sun, and also tolerates partial shade.
Pollinators also love them and will contribute to the biodiversity of your garden.
Crocosmia has another advantage — its long flowering season means you’ll continue enjoying the flowers for a few months.
Planting tips
Crocosmias are easy to grow and will do well in the ground or containers, as long as they have well-draining soil with full sun. Hold off planting until the frost has passed.
My grandad spent many daylight hours as possible tending to his garden, and I particularly remember him cutting dahlias to take inside to display in a vase. They are an excellent choice if you want a bloom with plentiful petals, and they come in a wide selection of colors, shapes, and sizes.
“These perennial flowering plants belong to the Asteraceae family and are known for their ability to thrive in full sunlight and well-drained soil,” says Palphramand, “making them an excellent option for gardeners looking for a versatile and low-maintenance plant that can withstand different weather conditions in summer months.”
Dahlias will also bloom repeatedly and will last through to the autumn.
Planting tips
Dahlias will do best in well-draining soil and will provide stronger stems and more flowers when grown in full sun.
Freesias were my mom’s favorite flower; she loved their delicate appearance and beautiful fragrance. They are a perfect choice if you want a summer flower to grow in a cutting garden that you can enjoy inside or out.
What’s more, Palphramand says that apart from freesias making exceptional cut flowers, “they make a stunning display in beds, borders, or containers.”
Planting tips
Freesias are sun-loving plants that need eight hours of sunshine to flourish. They’ll also do best in well-draining soil.
There’s nothing timid about Gladioli. If flowers had personalities, there would be nothing holding this one back. “Gladioli are a great choice for those who want to add a touch of grandeur to their summer garden,” says Palphramand.
“These bulbs are popular for their tall and majestic spikes of colorful flowers that can reach up to four feet. With their striking appearance, they are sure to make a statement in any garden,” he adds.
Despite their majestic appearance, they are easy to grow and Palphramand suggests planting them in clusters for an even more impressive visual impact.
Whatever your color preference, they’ll be a gladioli for you, as they come in a rainbow of colors and can bloom for weeks.
Planting tips
Gladiolus bulbs can be planted two weeks before your last expected frost. Plant your bulbs in well-draining soil and full sun. To extend the flowering season, plant more bulbs every two weeks.
I can’t suggest bulbs to grow for summer blooms without mentioning lilies. Although they are a much bolder choice than freesias, they are also fragrant and can be cut to fill your home with scent.
“Lilies come in a wide variety of colours and sizes, creating a stunning display within borders or containers,” says Palphramand. “With a variety of types to choose from, including Asiatic and Oriental lilies, you can enjoy blooms throughout the summer months.”
Planting tips
Lilies prefer well-drained soil, and their reliance on the sun depends on the variety you grow, so check the instructions on your packet before you plant.
How to Plant Bulbs in the Spring or Fall
FAQ
What bulbs are best to plant in March?
- Lilies. Our lily bulbs produce large, showy and exotic blooms throughout summer months. …
- Begonias. Begonias are among the most popular summer flowers in the British garden. …
- Gladioli. Gladioli bulbs and plants produce traditional and well-loved summer blooms. …
- Ranunculus. …
- Roses. …
- Perennial Plants.
What happens if I plant tulip bulbs in March?
-
Ideal Planting Time:Tulips are best planted in the fall, several weeks before the ground freezes. This allows them to establish roots and undergo vernalization (the cold period needed for blooming).
-
Planting in March:While you can plant tulips in March, especially if the ground is not frozen and still relatively cool, they may not bloom this year.
-
Why March Planting May Not Lead to Blooms:Tulips need a certain number of weeks of cold temperatures (usually 10-12 weeks) to prepare for flowering. March is often not cold enough for this to happen, especially in warmer regions.
-
What to Expect:If planted in March, you’ll likely see foliage growth this year, but the bulb may not produce flowers until next year.
-
Factors Affecting Success:The success of March planting depends on your location and the specific tulip variety. Some varieties may be more tolerant of late planting than others.
-
Tips for Planting in March:Choose a sunny spot with well-draining soil. Plant the bulbs with the pointy end facing up, and make sure they are planted deep enough (usually 4-6 inches).
-
Alternatives:If you want to see blooms this year, consider pre-chilled bulbs (which have already undergone vernalization) or forcing tulips indoors.
Will bulbs grow if planted in March?
If your bulbs require well-drained soil, you can amend heavy soil by adding sand to improve drainage. If you haven’t already planted allium bulbs in the fall, you can still plant them in March, although the roots won’t have as long to develop and the flowering period will be shorter during their first year.
What happens if you plant bulbs in the spring?
-
Chilling Period:Spring-flowering bulbs need a period of cool temperatures (below 40 degrees Fahrenheit for most) to initiate flowering. This chilling period is essential for them to develop and flower properly.
-
Root Development:Bulbs also need time to establish strong roots before they sprout foliage and flowers. Planting in the spring, especially if the soil hasn’t warmed up sufficiently, may delay or hinder root growth, which is crucial for supplying the bulb with water and nutrients.
-
Blooming Time:Even if spring-planted bulbs do grow leaves, they won’t bloom until the following year, after they’ve experienced another winter’s chilling period.
When is the best time to plant bulbs?
Many bulbs actually do well when planted at this time because the soil is warming up and the days are getting longer, giving your flowers the perfect conditions to sprout and bloom. So, if you’re looking to add a splash of color to your garden, March is the perfect time to start planting these spring beauties.
What bulbs should I plant in March for summer blooms?
Here are 7 bulbs to plant in March for summer blooms. You might also be interested in 7 bulb planting mistakes and what to do instead. 1. Agapanthus Agapanthus is one of my favorites, although I have quite a few. Also known as the African Lily, it has a stunning appearance.
Should you plant flowers in March?
Planting in March gives you the chance to enjoy a variety of spring flowers, even if you’re starting a bit later than usual. Many bulbs actually do well when planted at this time because the soil is warming up and the days are getting longer, giving your flowers the perfect conditions to sprout and bloom.
When should you plant spring-flowering bulbs?
If you didn’t get the chance to plant your spring-flowering bulbs earlier in the season, don’t worry—you can still get them in the ground in March for a beautiful spring display. March is a great time to plant bulbs that will bloom later in the season, giving your garden a burst of color when warmer weather arrives.
What daffodils & tulips can you plant in March?
March has arrived, so grab your best gardening gloves and get planting once more to enjoy color through the seasons. With bright yellow daffodils and multi-colored tulips to behold in spring, we can continue to bring vibrancy to our yards with summer bulbs.
Can you plant tulips in March?
Tulips are iconic spring bloomers that bring vibrant colors to any garden. Their adaptability makes them a favorite among gardeners. Planting them in March is still feasible, as long as the ground isn’t frozen. Ensure they receive plenty of sunlight and are planted in well-drained soil.