This guide will provide you with insights into various bulbs to plant in April, their unique characteristics, and how to care for them effectively. So, roll up your sleeves, and let’s dig into the enchanting world of bulb planting!

Allium

Alliums are striking bulbs that can add an architectural element to your garden with their tall, spherical flower heads. Hardy and easy to grow, these bulbs thrive in well-drained soil and require full sun. Alliums come in various sizes and colors, from deep purple to white, creating an impressive display in late spring to early summer.

When planting allium bulbs, ensure you plant them at a depth of about 4–6 inches and give them plenty of space to spread out. They attract pollinators like bees and butterflies, making them a great addition to any garden. After blooming, their dried seed heads can add visual interest throughout the summer and fall.

Begonia

Begonias are a garden favorite due to their lush foliage and stunning flowers. While most people think of begonias as annuals, the tuberous varieties can be planted as bulbs in the spring for a breathtaking show of color. Begin planting begonias in April, as they thrive in warmer temperatures.

Choose a partially shaded area with well-draining soil to plant your begonia bulbs. Space them about 12–15 inches apart to allow for their full growth. With their vibrant reds, pinks, and whites, begonias add an elegant touch to shaded gardens and patios. Water them regularly, and they will reward you with abundant blooms throughout the summer.

Blazing Star

Blazing Star, or Liatris, is an exceptional choice for gardeners looking to attract butterflies and bees. Its purple, feathery spikes can create stunning vertical interest in borders or wildflower gardens. Blazing Star bulbs are hardy and drought-resistant, making them suitable for a variety of garden conditions.

Plant these bulbs about 6–12 inches apart in well-drained soil with full sun exposure to promote robust growth. As the tall spikes unfurl, they bloom from the top down, creating a cascade of colors that will light up your garden in late summer. Once established, Blazing Star bulbs require minimal care beyond regular watering, making them a hassle-free addition to your planting roster.

Caladium

Caladiums are known for their extraordinary foliage more than their flowers. These tropical plants are famous for their heart-shaped leaves, which come in vibrant shades of green, red, pink, and white. When planted in April, these bulbs will thrive and add a vibrant touch to your garden, especially in shaded areas.

Select a location with rich, well-draining soil and plant the bulbs about 1–2 inches deep. Caladiums thrive in warmer conditions, so ensure you wait until the threat of frost has passed before planting. These lively plants are perfect for borders, containers, or as accents in flower beds. Keep the soil evenly moist, and you’ll enjoy their colorful foliage throughout the summer.

Calla Lily

Calla lilies are synonymous with elegance and sophistication. These striking flowers, with their graceful trumpet shape, can elevate any garden or floral arrangement. April is the perfect time to plant these bulbs, particularly in warmer areas where frost is less of a concern.

Calla lily bulbs prefer well-draining soil and full sun to partial shade. Plant them about 4–6 inches deep, spacing them 12 inches apart to allow for ample growth. They are available in a variety of colors, from classic white and yellow to deep burgundy and black, making them incredibly versatile. Regular watering and good drainage are essential, as these plants do not tolerate waterlogged soil. With proper care, you’ll enjoy their stunning blooms throughout the summer.

Canna

Cannas are bold, tropical plants known for their large, eye-catching flowers and lush foliage. These bulbs make a statement in any garden and can serve as remarkable focal points or borders. Planting canna bulbs in April gives them the best start before the warmer months.

Choose a spot with plenty of sunlight and rich, well-draining soil. Plant the bulbs about 4–6 inches deep, spacing them roughly 18 inches apart. Cannas are tolerant of moist soil, making them ideal for gardens near water features. With their vibrant shades of red, orange, and yellow, cannas will bloom abundantly throughout the summer, attracting hummingbirds and butterflies to your garden.

Cyclamen

Cyclamen bring a touch of charm and elegance with their uniquely shaped flowers and heart-shaped leaves. While typically considered a houseplant, hardy species can be planted outdoors in April in suitable climates. These delightful bulbs are perfect for shady areas where other plants might struggle.

Plant cyclamen bulbs flat side down in well-drained soil, roughly 2 inches deep. They prefer a cool, shaded spot and benefit from a rich organic mulch to retain moisture. Cyclamen will surprise you with their delicate blooms in shades of pink, white, and red during the cooler spring weather, adding vitality and beauty to your garden.

Dahlia

Dahlias are beloved for their impressive variety of colors and shapes, making them a gardener’s favorite. These tuberous bulbs need to be planted after the last frost, making April an ideal time in many regions. By planting in April, you can expect an explosion of color from midsummer to autumn.

Choose a sunny location with rich, well-drained soil, planting dahlias 4–6 inches deep and spacing them at least 12–24 inches apart, depending on the variety. Regular watering and deadheading will encourage strong growth and extended blooming. From small pom-poms to large decorative types, dahlias add texture and interest to any flower bed, creating a visual feast for the eyes.

Daylily

Daylilies are perennial favorites among gardeners due to their reliability and stunning blooms. Although often categorized with perennial flowers, they can be started from bulbs in April. These adaptable plants thrive in a wide range of environments, making them perfect for novice gardeners and seasoned pros alike.

Daylily bulbs should be planted in well-draining soil, approximately 1–2 inches deep and spaced 18 inches apart. They flourish in full sun but can tolerate partial shade. The spectacular blooms can be found in various colors, with some varieties exhibiting bi-colored or ruffled petals. With minimal maintenance, daylilies will reward you with a hearty display of blooms year after year.

Freesia

Freesia bulbs are synonymous with spring gardens, boasting an intoxicating fragrance and elegant, tube-shaped flowers. Their delightful scent and vibrant colors make them an excellent choice for both garden beds and containers. April is the best time to plant these striking bulbs.

Plant freesia bulbs in a sunny spot with well-drained soil, about 3–4 inches deep, spacing them 4–6 inches apart. As these bulbs grow, they will produce arching stems adorned with clusters of blooms that will flourish throughout late spring and early summer. Freesias love moisture, so ensure consistent watering, particularly during dry spells. Their lovely scent makes them a perfect addition to cut flower arrangements, bringing a touch of spring indoors.

Gloxinia

Gloxinia is a true gem in the world of flowering bulbs, celebrated for its stunning, velvety blooms that resemble bell-shaped flowers. These enchanting plants thrive indoors in pots but can also be grown in gardens where there’s protection from the hottest sun.

For outdoor planting, wait until the soil is warm, ideally surrounding the time of April. Gloxinia bulbs should be planted about 1 inch deep in well-drained soil with partial shade. They appreciate consistent moisture—ensuring the soil remains damp but not soggy will yield the best results. With care, gloxinia will present you with lush foliage and lavish blooms in deep purples, reds, and pinks, creating a striking focal point in any garden setting.

Gladiolus

Gladiolus are spectacular flowering bulbs renowned for their tall flower spikes adorned with trumpet-shaped blooms. As one of the focal points of summer gardens, these bulbs should be planted in April for the best display in mid to late summer.

Select a sunny spot with well-draining soil, planting gladiolus bulbs about 4–6 inches deep, spaced 6–8 inches apart. Water them regularly, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between watering. Gladioli come in a multitude of colors, and you can plant various types for a longer blooming season. They also make stunning cut flowers, filling your home with vibrant colors and elegance.

Iris

Iris bulbs, known for their stunning diversity and resilience, are another wonderful option to plant in April. With an array of colors, shapes, and sizes, irises can create dramatic focal points in any garden setting.

For best results, plant bearded iris bulbs in well-draining soil, positioned shallowly with the rhizome exposed at the soil line. These bulbs thrive in full sun and can withstand periods of drought. Depending on the variety, irises can bloom from spring through early summer, filling your garden with their intricate blossoms. The enchanting flowers are perfect for attracting pollinators, making them an essential part of any buzzing garden landscape.

Asiatic Lily

Asiatic lilies are among the first to bloom in the spring, and their vibrant colors make them standouts in any garden. These lilies are hardy and straightforward to cultivate, making them a favorite among many garden enthusiasts.

Plant asiatic lily bulbs in well-drained soil with full sun exposure, spacing them about 12–18 inches apart and planting them 6–8 inches deep. They prefer slightly acidic conditions and benefit from regular watering during dry spells. Asiatic lilies bloom in a wide range of colors, from soft pastel hues to bright and bold shades. Their elegant flowers will light up your garden space throughout late spring and early summer, adding a lovely fragrance that will leave you enchanted.