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
🌰
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
🌱
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
🌿
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
🌾
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
🌸
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