Spring is the perfect time to start planning your summer garden. Summer bulbs bring unparalleled colour and life to your garden, with an explosion of bright hues as soon as the warm months are upon us. Plant them in spring to lay the foundation for a colourful and vibrant summer garden!
Combining colours
You could decide to let one colour play the starring role, or indeed combine several bright colours. Combining fuchsia and orange, for example, creates a striking and energetic effect, while yellow and blue result in a calm and balanced atmosphere. Experiment with different shades and use borders and pots to add depth and dimension to your garden.
1. Fancy fuchsia
Fuchsia is a striking colour that immediately draws your attention. Combine bulbs like fuchsia-pink freesias, dahlias or gladioli with evergreen plants to create a lively contrast. Fuchsia adds a touch of the tropics to a garden.
2. Fiery orange
Orange represents energy and warmth. Bulbs such as orange Canna and lilies make for a spectacular show in the garden. This fiery colour works really well in sunny borders and will also attract butterflies!
3. Radiant yellow
Yellow is a typical summer colour that exudes joy and optimism. Summer bulbs such as sun-drenched daylilies (Hemerocallis), yellow dahlias and bright yellow anemones are perfect choices.
4. Deep purple
Purple is an elegant and mysterious colour, and with bulbs such as blazing star (Liatris) and Agapanthus, you will add a royal atmosphere to your garden. Purple contrasts beautifully with lighter colours and creates a sophisticated look.
5. Bright white
For a fresh and serene look, choose white flowers. White gladioli or Star-of-Bethlehem (Ornithogalum) bring peace and balance to the garden. White reflects the light beautifully, especially at dusk, and makes for a perfect contrast to brightly coloured flowers.
6. Robust red
Red represents passion and vigour. For a garden bursting with energy, red bulbs such as bright red dahlias and gladioli are an excellent idea. These flowers create an intense explosion of colour, especially when combined with orange or yellow.
7. Heavenly blue
Blue flowers create a calming atmosphere. Think anemones or African Lily (Agapanthus). Blue flowers set a cool, relaxing backdrop to warmer shades and are perfect for creating calming nooks and crannies in your garden.
8. Pink romance
Pink is the colour of romance and gentleness. With soft-pink dahlias, anemones or gladioli, you can create a romantic atmosphere in the garden. Pink works really well with white and purple, to create a harmonious look.
9. Surprising violet
Violet is a colour that immediately stands out in the garden, while being just a little more subtle than brighter shades. Think violet gladioli, irises or dahlias for a dramatic effect. Violet combines really well with yellow or white for a balanced colour palette.
10. Sparkling coral
Coral is a unique, playful colour that is perfect for a summer garden. Bulbs like coral-coloured begonias, gladioli or lilies will give your garden a fresh, modern look. This colour works surprisingly well with warm as well as cool tones.
Plant your summer bulbs in spring
Summer bulbs should be planted in the spring, so that they flower in summer. Make sure you plant the bulbs in well-drained soil and in a sunny spot. You will be amazed at the explosion of colours that will bring your garden to life!
