Pretty Petals
The classic blooms of bearded irises come in just about any color you could want, but resist the temptation to mix a lot of hues together in one spot. Bearded irises prefer soil that has organic matter, such as compost, but can adapt well to a range of soil conditions as long as there's good drainage. It's important to plant them in a location that receives at least six hours of full sun a day. Once established, they will bloom for years. If your soil is moist and not well drained, use Louisiana irises or Japanese irises instead. Order from Iris City Gardens, www.iriscitygardens.com or 1-800-934-4747, and Schreiner's Iris Gardens, www.schreinersgardens.com or 1-800-525-2367. --Gene B. Bussell

Summer bulbs and tubers
Plant cannas, dahlias, gladioli, caladiums, and elephant's ears now. These plants add bright, colorful foliage and blooms to any garden. If you love chartreuse, be sure to try 'Lime Zinger' elephant's ears (pictured) for a splash of color that wows.

Lawns
In the Middle, Lower, and Coastal South, plant plugs or lay sod of warm-season grasses such as Bermuda, St. Augustine, centipede, and Zoysia. It is important to water newly planted lawns regularly to help them establish healthy root systems. Infrequent, deep watering is better than frequent, shallow watering as it promotes deeper root growth. Once established, most lawns need about an inch of water a week. Tip: To see if your sod has taken root, gently pull on one section of your new lawn. If it lifts up as if you'd just planted it, it's not yet established. If it resists being lifted, it's taken root.

Container Recipe
Try this 1-2-3 combination for sure success. You will need a 21-inch-diameter container. Plant one 'Dragon Wing Pink' begonia (4-inch pot), one 'Summer Wave Blue' torenia (4-inch pot), and one variegated Algerian ivy (4-inch pot). Place in a location that receives morning sun and afternoon shade. Enjoy.

Gift hydrangeas
The blossoms of potted florists' hydrangeas can last three to four weeks inside. Care is simple. Place in a cool room with bright, indirect light. Water plants regularly, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings (check every other day). Do not let them sit in sauces of water. After they finish blooming, you will have the best luck growing them in your garden in the Lower and Coastal South.

Vegetables
For faster results, set out transplants of beans, squash, peppers, okra, tomatoes, zucchini, eggplant, and corn in the Middle, Lower, and Coastal South.