Texas spring doesn’t stick around for long. As the days warm up and March winds down, the clock is ticking for gardeners who want bold, beautiful blooms this summer. If you want to enjoy a garden full of color and texture in the hotter months, now is the time to act.
You have just days left to get these bulbs into the ground before it’s too late.
These summer- and fall-blooming bulbs thrive in warm soil, but they need time to establish strong roots before the intense Texas heat arrives. Planting them now ensures a vibrant, thriving garden come summer.
Why Timing Matters in Texas
In many regions, gardeners can wait until April or May to plant. Not in Texas. Our early heat waves can stress young plants that aren’t yet established, leading to stunted growth or even complete failure.
By planting before the end of March, you give your bulbs the best chance to grow deep roots, handle summer stress, and produce impressive blooms or foliage.
The Bulbs You Need to Plant Today
If you’re looking for a high-impact summer garden, these bulbs should be at the top of your planting list—just don’t wait any longer.
- Gladiolus
- Bloom Time: Early to mid-summer
- Light Requirements: Full sun
- Why Plant Now: These tall, spiked flowers need a head start to bloom before the summer heat peaks.
- Tip: Plant in two-week intervals through early May for staggered blooms.
- Caladiums
- Foliage Season: Late spring through fall
- Light Requirements: Partial to full shade (some varieties tolerate sun)
- Why Plant Now: Caladiums thrive in warm, humid conditions. Early planting gives them time to grow full, colorful leaves before summer.
- Tip: Wait until soil reaches 70°F, or warm the soil using black mulch.
- Dahlias (best in Central and North Texas)
- Bloom Time: Summer through fall
- Light Requirements: Full sun, with afternoon shade in hotter regions
- Why Plant Now: Dahlias need time to develop before hot weather sets in.
- Tip: Choose heat-tolerant varieties and water consistently.
- Canna Lilies
- Bloom Time: Summer to frost
- Light Requirements: Full sun
- Why Plant Now: These tropical favorites need early planting for full-height growth and strong blooms.
- Tip: Great for borders, containers, or around water features.
- Elephant Ears (Colocasia or Alocasia)
- Foliage Season: Summer to fall
- Light Requirements: Partial shade to filtered sun
- Why Plant Now: These dramatic plants need time to develop their large leaves.
- Tip: Keep soil moist and rich in organic matter for the best results.
Texas Bulb Planting Checklist
- Soil temperature is at least 60–70°F
- You’ve selected spots based on sun/shade needs
- You have mulch ready to conserve moisture
- You’re planting by March 31 to beat the heat
Final Thoughts
If you want your summer garden to shine, this is your last chance to make it happen. Waiting even a week or two could mean the difference between a thriving, colorful yard and a missed opportunity.
Don’t wait until it’s too late. Plant today—and enjoy a stunning Texas garden all summer long.
