Summer bulbs

If you thought starting plants indoors worked for seed alone, think again. You can give your summer bulbs a good start by planting them inside in a pot four to six weeks before the last frost and transplanting them outdoors when weather permits.

Tuberous begonias, callas and caladiums will especially benefit from this and they can be left in the pot outside too. Plant them in a good medium with peat moss and perlite in a warm and bright spot but not direct sunlight and keep them well watered until it's time to move them outdoors.

It is very important when planting bulbs to respect the recommended planting depth, most bulbs don't perform because they are planted too deep. The ones that should be planted 6 to 8 inches below ground are the common lily, the daffodils, the irises and the tulips, everything else should be much closer to the surface, no more than 3 inches. Some bulbs benefit from having the tops almost exposed, even though that makes them rabbit lunch.

One thing about bulbs, one tends to plant them and forget them, so it is best to plan them into your overall garden plan and overlay them with late summer perennials so you don't accidentally dig them up when you make room for new flowers.