When to Plant
Anemone corms can be planted in fall or early spring, depending on your climate. In milder regions, fall planting allows roots to develop over winter, leading to early spring blooms. In colder climates, it’s safer to wait until late winter or very early spring, once the soil is workable.
Where to Plant
Choose a location with full sun or partial shade. Anemones prefer bright morning light and some protection from harsh afternoon sun, especially in warmer zones. Well-drained soil is essential — soggy conditions can cause the corms to rot. If your soil is heavy, work in compost, sand, or leaf mold to improve drainage.
Preparing the Soil
Loosen the soil to a depth of about 15 to 20 cm. Remove any stones, roots, or compacted clumps to help the corms establish quickly. While anemones aren’t heavy feeders, mixing in a small amount of organic matter can improve overall soil structure and moisture balance.
Soaking and Presprouting (Optional but Recommended)
Before planting, soak the corms in lukewarm water for 4 to 12 hours to rehydrate them. For an even more reliable start, you can presprout them by placing them in trays of moist soil for a few days until small rootlets form. This step is helpful if you're planting in early spring or want quicker blooms.
Planting the Corms
Plant the corms about 3 to 5 cm deep. If the top and bottom are hard to distinguish — which is common — place the corms on their side; they will naturally orient themselves. Space them about 10 to 15 cm apart for ground planting. In containers, you can plant more densely to create a full, lush look.
After Planting
Water the soil gently after planting to help settle it around the corms. Keep the soil evenly moist — not soaked — while the plants are growing. Once established, anemones can handle short dry spells, but consistent moisture encourages stronger blooms.
Spring Growth and Blooming
Shoots typically emerge within two to three weeks after planting, with flowers appearing in around eight to twelve weeks depending on conditions. If desired, you can apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer at the start of the growing season to encourage healthy flowering.
After Blooming
Once the blooms are spent, you can deadhead to tidy up and conserve plant energy. Allow the foliage to yellow and die back naturally — this process is important for recharging the corm. In colder climates, dig up and store the corms in a cool, dry place after the foliage dies. In mild zones, they can often remain in the ground to naturalize and return the following season.
Extra Growing Tips
Anemones make excellent cut flowers. Harvest them when the blooms are half open for the longest vase life. In borders, pair them with spring bulbs like tulips or low-growing perennials. In containers, choose shallow but wide pots with excellent drainage to support multiple corms in one display. Regular division every couple of years helps maintain bloom strength and spacing.
