How to plant
When to plant
Plant Allium bulbs in autumn — usually from September to November — while the soil is still workable but cool. This gives bulbs time to establish roots before winter and ensures a strong spring display.
Where to plant
Select a location with full sun and good drainage. Alliums perform best in open, sunny spots and dislike heavy, soggy soil. Raised beds, gravelly soils, and borders with air flow are ideal.
Preparing the soil
Loosen the soil to a depth of 25–30 cm and remove weeds or stones. Mix in compost for added fertility and blend in sand or grit if working with clay or compacted soil. Alliums prefer a neutral to slightly alkaline pH.
Planting the bulbs
Position the bulbs with the pointed end facing up, planting them 10–15 cm deep — about three times the bulb’s height. In sandy soils, plant slightly deeper; in clay, a bit shallower. Leave 10–20 cm between bulbs depending on the variety.
After planting
Water once to settle the soil. After that, let nature take over — Alliums prefer dry conditions and are highly drought-tolerant once established.
During growth and blooming
Green shoots appear in early spring, followed by strong stems and flower heads. Keep the soil lightly moist if spring is unusually dry. A low-nitrogen fertilizer in early growth will support strong stems and vibrant blooms.
After blooming
Cut back faded flower heads if you don’t want them to self-seed — or leave them to dry naturally as decorative seed heads. Allow the foliage to die back fully before removing, as this helps recharge the bulbs for the following year.
Extra tips
Plant Alliums in generous clusters for maximum visual impact. They pair beautifully with grasses, tulips, or hardy perennials like salvia and nepeta. If you struggle with rodents, plant bulbs in mesh baskets or cages. Once planted, Alliums will reward you year after year with minimal maintenance.
