Many spring-flowering bulbs, such as tulips, are a onetime shot in our climate. New bulbs need to be planted every year. But other spring-flowering bulbs — including leucojum, many narcissuses and daffodils, Dutch iris, amaryllis, ground orchid (Bletilla), Easter lily, wood hyacinth, freesia, star flower (Ipheion), hyacinths, Louisiana irises, spider lilies (Hymenocallis) and calla lily (only Zantedeschia aethiopica) — will reliably bloom again year after year. Those bulbs are reaching the end of their growing season now. Cut back the foliage once it starts to turn yellow. There is no need to lift and store the bulbs out of the ground over the summer, but make sure you do not dig into the area and damage the bulbs accidentally. If you want to replant the area, and the bulbs would be in the way, dig them up. Cut off the foliage, spread them out and let them dry for a few days or a week. Store the bulbs in paper bags indoors at room temperature, and replant in November.
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