Ranunculus: Your Next Cut Flower Garden Star

September 25, 2023

The season's change has a certain magic to it, especially for those of us who find joy in the soil and blossoms. As we say farewell to the vibrant hues of summer, there's a wave of excitement at the horizon - the anticipation of what's to come. I'm thrilled to introduce (or perhaps, re-introduce) you to a flower that can make your garden come alive with whimsy and wonder: The Ranunculus.

This fall, we're giving you a golden opportunity to adorn your cut flower garden with this rose-like bloom. Our Annual Fall Bulb sale will feature the very ranunculus corms that have been the star of many a show-stopping bouquets! 

Characterized by their lush, multi-layered petals and a dreamy palette of colors, ranunculus flowers are and spring favorite. Their long vase make them a must have for any cut flower garden. 

Planting ranunculus is a delightful endeavor, beginning with their unique corms that echo the shapes of tiny octopuses or claws. Procured from our bulb sale, these corms come alive after a gentle 3-4 hour soak in lukewarm water. When planting, a depth of 2-4 inches is ideal, with each corm's claw pointing downward and spaced about 4-6 inches apart.  

These blooms crave well-draining soil and the full embrace of sunlight. Once nestled in the earth, quench their initial thirst with a generous watering, then maintain moisture without over-saturating. For those in frost-prone areas, start your ranunculus journey indoors or in a greenhouse, transitioning them outside once they're sprightly and the colder threats have passed. 

While ranunculus aren't too fussy, do keep an eye out for aphids. A blast of water or an application of neem oil can help keep them at bay. Harvest when the buds feel squishy, like a marshmallow, they're ready for the cut. Use sharp scissors or pruners and cut the stems at an angle. Don't forget to immediately place them in water. 

After the blooming season, let the foliage die down naturally. This allows the plant to gather energy for the next season. Once dry, you can pull them out, clean the corms, and store them in a cool, dry place. 

If the thought of having these blooms in your garden excites you, mark your calendar for our fall bulb sale! Beyond just providing corms, we aim to build a community where every gardener, whether novice or expert, feels equipped and confident to grow ranunculus. 

Planting a flower might seem like a simple act, but in reality, it's a promise. A promise of beauty, of brighter days, and of nature's endless wonders. And with ranunculus, that promise feels all the more magical. Learn more about Growing Ranunculus on the blog and visit our Corms & Bulbs page for the annual sale date.

Don't miss the opportunity to score these hard to find corms and sign up for the Fall Bulb Sale reminder.

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