Some bulbs are all talk. They promise a summer of glory—then vanish before the sunscreen’s even out. You don’t need that kind of betrayal in your garden. June is prime time to plant for bold color and real staying power. But not every bulb is built for the long haul. Some will wilt, flop, or flat-out ghost you by July. We’re calling them out—three fleeting flirts that burn bright and fade fast. But we’re also bringing the good news: seven bulbs that actually show up and keep the party going deep into summer. Plant these, and your garden won’t just survive the heat—it’ll own it.
Gladiolus
Gladiolus, known for their tall, striking spikes of blooms, bring an orchestra of color to any garden. These bulbs thrive in the sunny days of June and bloom in an array of hues from pink to deep purple.
They’re perfect for creating vertical interest in flower beds. However, come July, they may struggle under extreme heat unless properly watered.
Did you know? Gladiolus is often associated with strength and integrity, making it a fitting choice for a resilient garden.
Dahlia
Dahlias are the showstoppers of the garden world, known for their diverse shapes and vivid colors. These bulbs love the warmth of June, blooming in a spectrum from soft pastels to bold reds.
Their unique petal structures add fascinating dimensions to any garden landscape. Unlike some bulbs, Dahlias continue to thrive well into the summer, offering lasting beauty.
Fun fact: Dahlias were once used by the Aztecs for their medicinal properties, adding an interesting historical twist to their visual appeal.
Lily
Lilies are synonymous with elegance and fragrant splendor. Each bloom, with its large petals, releases a delicate scent that enhances garden ambiance.
Lilies prefer well-drained soil and full sun, thriving throughout June. As resilient as they are beautiful, they withstand the onset of July heat with grace.
Interestingly, the Lily has been a symbol of purity and refined beauty across various cultures, adding a touch of sophistication to any garden.
Allium
Alliums, with their globe-like clusters of purple, add whimsical charm to flower beds. Their tall, sturdy stalks can withstand June’s varying weather, making them a reliable choice for gardeners.
They’re not only beautiful but also deter pests, thanks to their mild onion scent. As July rolls in, Alliums continue to stand tall, unfazed by rising temperatures.
The name ‘Allium’ is Latin for garlic, reflecting its close botanical ties to the culinary staple.
Begonia
Begonias are a delight to both novice and experienced gardeners, known for their lush foliage and vibrant blooms. These shade-loving bulbs thrive in the cooler spots of your garden, adding a pop of color.
While they flourish in June, Begonias tend to struggle as July’s heat intensifies, often requiring extra care and watering.
Did you know? Begonias are named after Michel Bégon, a French governor and plant enthusiast, reflecting their storied botanical history.
Ranunculus
Ranunculus are celebrated for their lush, multi-petaled blooms that resemble delicate roses. As June unfolds, these bulbs bring a romantic flair to gardens with their pastel colors.
They prefer cooler climates and can wilt as temperatures soar in July, demanding attentive care.
Quirky fact: The name ‘Ranunculus’ comes from the Latin word for ‘little frog,’ hinting at their preference for watery environments in the wild.
Freesia
Freesias are treasured for their sweet fragrance and delicate, tubular blossoms. Blooming splendidly in June, they fill gardens with a delightful aroma and a splash of color.
These bulbs are fairly hardy but may need extra moisture to thrive as July brings hotter days.
Interestingly, Freesias are often used in perfumery, thanks to their captivating scent, making them a fragrant addition to your garden.
Tulip
Tulips are spring’s heralds, with their brilliant blooms captivating in early June. However, they are notorious for their fleeting beauty, often struggling to maintain vigor into July.
The onset of summer’s heat signals the end of their blooming season, leaving behind only green foliage.
Fun fact: Tulip mania in the 17th century saw these flowers become more valuable than gold in Holland, a testament to their historical allure.
Hyacinth
Hyacinths enchant with their dense, fragrant spikes, offering a burst of color in late spring. Their striking fragrance is a highlight of any garden.
However, as June progresses into July, they often succumb to the heat, requiring ample watering to survive.
Did you know? In Greek mythology, the Hyacinth flower was created from the spilled blood of Hyacinthus, a Spartan prince, adding a mythic layer to its beauty.
Crocus
Crocuses herald the end of winter with their early blooms, often peeking through late spring snow. They are a symbol of renewal and hope in gardens.
Despite their resilience to cold, they struggle with the intense heat of July, often wilting quickly.
Historically, Crocuses were used in ancient times for saffron production, highlighting their multifaceted nature.