Planting Guide

Bulb Planting Guide

Give your bulbs the best start with this simple planting guide. Use the quick rule box below, then open each section for more detailed instructions.
✦ Not Sure? Follow This
BulbsPointy end up, plant deep
CormsFlat side down
TubersEye or hollow side up
RhizomesLay flat
RootsCrown at soil level
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Bulbs

True Bulbs

Lily, Dutch Iris, Nerine

How to plant

  • Place bulb pointy end up
  • Plant 2–3x the bulb's height deep
  • Space bulbs a few cm apart
  • Water after planting

Best conditions

  • Full sun or light shade
  • Well-drained soil
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Corms

Corms

Gladioli, Freesia, Chasmanthe, Tigridia, Anemone, Acidanthera

How to plant

  • Plant with the flat side down and point facing up
  • Plant around 5–10 cm deep
  • Soak anemones before planting
  • Water lightly after planting

Best conditions

  • Sunny spot
  • Free-draining soil
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Tubers

Tubers

Dahlia, Begonia, Mirabilis

How to plant

  • Place with the eye or hollow side facing up
  • Plant just below the soil surface
  • Water lightly at first
  • Increase watering once shoots appear

Best conditions

  • Warm, sunny position
  • Frost-free planting conditions
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Rhizomes

Rhizomes

Canna, Ismene

How to plant

  • Lay horizontally in the soil
  • Cover lightly
  • Keep slightly moist
  • Water more regularly once growing strongly

Best conditions

  • Warm, sunny spot
  • Rich soil
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Roots

Bare Roots / Tuberous Roots

Peony, Astilbe, Echinacea, Liatris, Gypsophila, Agapanthus

How to plant

  • Place crown or eyes at soil level or just below
  • Spread roots out gently
  • Firm soil lightly around the roots
  • Water well after planting

Best conditions

  • Moist but well-drained soil
  • Sun or partial shade, depending on variety