Ranunculus flowers look almost too perfect to be real. Their exquisite, rose-like blossoms are often seen in high-end flower shops and wedding bouquets. The flowers display layer upon layer of silky petals in bright, paintbox colors. Why not grow them yourself and enjoy their beauty all summer long? They last for a week or more in a vase, and even longer when grown in a pot or planter.
STEP 1 - KNOW
START WITH A BETTER BULB
When you compare two ranunculus bulbs side by side, it’s easy to see differences in quality. Larger bulbs contain more stored food energy to support a stronger plant with more flowers. Longfield Gardens supplies 6/7 cm ranunculus bulbs (shown below) so you can enjoy the biggest, brightest blooms.
STEP 2 - PLAN
WHERE TO PLANT RANUNCULUS
Ranunculus are cool season flowers that grow best in spring-like temperatures of about 55°F. In warm climates (zones 8-10), ranunculus can be planted in beds and borders, cutting gardens and containers. They make good companions for other spring flowers such as primroses, pansies, and larkspur.
In cooler climates (zones 4-7), ranunculus grows best in pots and planters. This makes it easy to give their flowers center stage and admire them up close. Ranunculus bulbs can also be grown in a greenhouse. Plant them in pots in the fall for flowers during late winter and early spring.
STEP 3 - GROW
PLANTING IS AS EASY 1-2-3
1. Loosen the soil in the garden or fill a pot with coarse, well-drained growing mix
2. Plant the bulbs 4" apart and 2" deep with the claw side down
3. Cover the bulbs with soil and water as needed.
GROWING TIPS FOR RANUNCULUS
Ranunculus are cool weather plants. They dislike warm temperatures and hot sun. For best results, plant the bulbs in light, well-drained soil. Avoid soil that stays wet as it can cause the bulbs to rot.
In warm climates, ranunculus plants will develop a fairly large root ball. When planting bulbs in the garden or in a pot, be sure to allow room for the plants to fill out.
For long-lasting bouquets, ranunculus flowers should be cut when they first begin to show color.
STEP 4 - AFTERCARE
CARING FOR RANUNCULUS AFTER THEY BLOOM
Ranunculus are winter hardy in zones 8-10. To grow them as perennials, plant them in very well-drained soil. Winter temperatures should be relatively cool.
In cooler areas (zones 4-7) or less than ideal growing conditions, ranunculus are usually treated as annuals. Plant fresh bulbs each spring.
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