Most Popular Flowers
Even a young child can pick a rose out of a lineup — it's one of the most beloved flowers grown, with hundreds of varieties finding their way into gardens of every size. But roses have plenty of company at the top.
Bulbs and Classics
The tulip's cup shape and huge color range make it an easy, spectacular grower — some gardeners lift the bulbs each fall, though many simply leave them in place with good results either way. Iris, another bulb-grower, can be divided every year or two to expand the bed, and comes in exotic colors, with some fragrant varieties smelling almost like grape candy. The daisy, simple and unassuming, is so easy to grow it can turn into a nuisance if left unchecked — a fitting flower for "he loves me, he loves me not."
Fragrance and Drama
The carnation, sometimes called the poor man's rose, is prized for its spicy scent, long vase life, and ease of care — a staple of boutonnieres and corsages. Freesia, usually sold potted, may have the most fabulous scent of all; a few pots can perfume an entire room. The gladiola brings drama with tall, sword-like stalks in vivid colors — plant the bulbs at the right depth or they'll grow sideways, and once the lowest bloom opens, cut the stalk for a showstopping addition to any bouquet.
Read planting depth instructions carefully for gladiola bulbs — planted too shallow, the stalks can grow sideways instead of the dramatic upright spikes they're known for.
