I would like to grow some unusual bulbs in containers this summer. What are the basic guidelines to ensure good growth?
A. Late winter or early spring is a good time to consider the wide range of exotic bulbs available for container planting. Summer-flowering annual bulbs are colorful and unique choices for containers. These include bulbs, tubers, corms, rhizomes such as Agapanthus (lily of the Nile), Crocosmia (montbretia), Begonia x tuberhybrida, (tuberous begonia), Canna x generalis (garden canna), Caladium (caladium), Colocasia (elephant ears), Zantedeschia (calla lily), Acidanthera (peacock orchid) and Polianthes (tuberose). By starting these tender bulbs indoors, they will have a head start before being gradually introduced to balmy outdoor conditions. After May 15 the containers can take up permanent residence outside. Most bulbs prefer a good commercial potting soil with some added organic matter and sand. Plant the bulbs shallow, 1 inch below soil level, except for tuberous begonias, which are only partially covered with soil. Crowd the bulbs closely in a heavy container able to withstand windy
