In February we highlight flowers that are planted in the spring to have gorgeous flowers in the summer. Many of them are native to other countries but do well in the US.  We also have added a versatile vegetable that comes in many varieties.  

Peruvian Daffodils

The Peruvian Daffodil is a highly fragrant exotic-looking, white wildflower native to South America. The petals of these trumpet-shaped blooms are very similar to a Spider Lily and they stand majestically above its strappy, arching leaves. They are easy to grow and are equally striking in the garden or in a floral arrangement. They are deer resistant and hardy in Zones 7-10. Peruvian Daffodil is considered an annual in all other zones but can be lifted and stored for planting the following year. Just give them a sunny location with good draining soil and then enjoy the show!

Crocosmia

Crocosmia have been around for over 125 years but are not well-known in the U.S. They are sun worshippers and rather easy to grow. Plant the corms in the spring about 1 to 2 inches deep and 8 to 10 inches apart. They are hardy in garden zone 6 through 8 and colors include red, orange and yellow.  Crocosmia prefers rich soil that drains well and grows 2 to 4 feet tall which make them a good choice for the middle of a flower border. They can be bothered by insects, particularly Thirps and infestations can be controlled by spraying the plant with insecticidal soap.

Leucocoryne

Leucocoryne are a little-known tender bulb native to Chile and the Andes Mountains. The bulbs should be planted 2 inches deep and around 3 inches apart and they are ideal for rock gardens and containers. They are planted in the spring and bloom in the early to mid-summer. Their foliage is narrow, almost grass-like and the saucer-shaped flowers will last for several weeks. Each stem yields clusters of 6-9 blooms which have a striking appearance as well as a beautiful fragrance. The flowers are usually bi-colored and as an added bonus the plant is deer-resistant.

Beans

There are no shortage of choices when it comes to Beans. There are probably more varieties of Bean than any other garden vegetable. Whether you prefer Bush Beans or Pole Beans there is bound to be one you will enjoy. Some beans such as the Hyacinth Bean or Scarlet Runner are grown just for the beauty of their flowers. Beans are also a great vegetable for a kids garden as the size of the seed makes them easy for small hands to plant and they sprout quickly. Just give them full sun conditions with a rich soil that drains well and you’ll have plenty of Beans to share with your friends and neighbors!