Asiatic Lilies
If you want a low-maintenance flower, Asian lilies (Lilium spp.) are a lovely option. Although they don't need continuous care, these spring bloomers need a sunny location and well-draining soil, according to FlowerBulbs.com horticulturist Peggy Anne Montgomery. "The vibrant blooms attract hummingbirds and other pollinators like bees and butterflies, contributing to a healthier and more biodiverse ecosystem."
Coppertips
Coppertips (Crocosmia) are a real show stopper in mid- to late-summer gardens, with their erect, slender leaves crowned with vibrant blooms in shades of red, orange, and yellow. "These beauties attract hummingbirds and butterflies, but deer and rabbits don't care for them," states Montgomery. This warm-weather bloom is great as a cut flower and container plant, and it will last for a long time.
Gladiolus
Gladioli are growing in popularity every year; they are sometimes referred to as sword lilies due to the curve of their leaves. "The long stems, covered in frilly, brightly colored blooms, are lovely and fragrant," Montgomery states. "I can’t think of anything more dramatic than a vase full of glass in the summertime."
Dahlias
You can choose a dahlia that will look lovely in your landscape because they come in a wide range of hues, forms, and sizes. "Most varieties will need to be staked to hold the plant and its large, heavy blooms upright, but that’s a small price for the magnificent blooms," states Montgomery. "They don't cut them in bud, but they make excellent cut flowers. Dahlia buds, in contrast to other flowers, do not open after cutting." When the soil is warm in the spring, plant dahlias following the last frost.
Calla Lilies
Calla lilies (Zantedeschia aethiopica) are elegant, heat-loving plants that are perfect for growing in containers. "I put them in a prominent place in the garden until they have finished blooming in late summer and the foliage begins to droop," says Montgomery.
Canna Lilies
Canna lilies will add a tropical touch to your garden. "The foliage is lush green, bronze, or stripped in various colors," Montgomery explains. "The orchid-like flowers attract hummingbirds and other pollinators." This gorgeous bloom is a perfect choice for spring planting because it likes heat and humidity and grows well in the ground or in large containers.
Pansies
For a stunning display later in the season, pansies (Viola) can be planted in the early spring. Senior horticultural at Longwood Gardens Jessica Thomson adds, "Pansies are one of the cold-hardiest spring annuals, with a large variety of colors and cultivars available." "These are lovely planted in the beds, containers or even baskets."
Peonies
Peonies, or Paeonia, are a popular late spring bloom that adorn landscapes with magnificent, massive blooms. "There are many varieties to choose from, including woody and herbaceous varieties or a combination of the two," Thomson states. "Choose varieties that are indicated for garden use (versus a cut flower variety) and add a support system for the best show in the garden."
Bleeding Hearts
Bleeding heart (Lamprocapnos spectabilis) is aptly named for its pink-and-white heart-shaped flowers that bloom from large flower stalks. "It’s absolutely stunning in the shady spring garden," says Thomson. "Foliage dies away in the heat of early summer, leaving room for other summer flowering perennials." Plant this beautiful flower in early spring once the threat of frost has passed.
Marigolds
According to Thomson, the vibrant orange or yellow daisy-like marigolds (Calendula officinalis) blossoms add a pop of color to a sunny spring border garden. "Calendula is a happy self-sower, so no need to replant year after year." Because marigolds are so good at keeping pests away, they make an excellent companion plant for a lot of different veggies.
