Ranunculus bulbs: Add some layers to your landscape

Want to give your garden a burst of colour this winter? Plant some radiant Ranunculi. With their soft, ruffled petals in many pastel shades, Ranunculus flowers will add a touch of elegance and grace to your outdoor space. It’s no wonder these spring-bloomers are a preferred choice for wedding ceremonies. If you love the look of these delicate flowers, consider planting some Ranunculus bulbs in your winter garden.

How the Ranunculus got its name

To many, ‘Ranunculus’ is a strange sounding word. But its name has a meaning behind it, and one that is rather endearing. Translated from Latin, Ranunculus means ‘little frog’. Many believe it got its name because it was first discovered growing on the banks of marshy streams in southwestern Asia. Home to many little frogs!

Ranunculus flower symbolism

In Victorian times, a bouquet of Ranunculi was often gifted to symbolise admiration. The individual gifting the flowers would use them to indicate that he or she found the receiver charming and attractive. Interesting, right? This sentiment has sure stood the test of time, as many people still give Ranunculus bouquets to suitors as a sign of romantic interest.

Growing Ranunculus bulbs

When you receive your Ranunculus bulb delivery from Hadeco, you’ll notice that the corms look like little octopuses. This is normal for this species, so don’t feel alarmed! Once you have soaked the corms for three to four hours, and pre-sprouted them in a seed tray for about two weeks, they are ready for planting. (Click here to learn how to plant Ranunculus bulbs in flower beds.)

How to plant Ranunculus bulbs in containers:

• First, find a suitable container for your Ranunculus bulbs, like a Capi Europe planter or  Ceramic Crystal Pot. One that is large enough for the number of bulbs you intend to plant, with drainage holes at the bottom.
• Fill the container with Pokon Potting Soil. We love this mix because it contains top-quality raw materials, such as peat litter, garden peat, lime, and wood fibre. Allowing for easy nutrient extraction and healthy plant growth.
• When planting Ranunculus bulbs in containers, you can get away with planting them slightly closer together. We recommend a minimum of 7.5cm apart. Dig holes in the soil that are about 5cm deep and plant the corms, one by one.
• Once planted, give the bulbs some water.
• Then move the container into a sunny spot so it receives maximum light exposure throughout the day.

Ranunculi as cut flowers

Ranunculi blooms make stunning flower arrangements. And when prepared properly, can last for up to ten days. Just be sure to change the water every other day to keep the flowers well hydrated.

How to prepare Ranunculus blooms for a vase:

• Once your Ranunculus plants start producing flower buds, cut the stems, but only once the buds start to show colour. 
• Strip the stems of leaves that are lower down so they don’t cloud the water.
• Then cut the stems again just before placing the flowers in a vase.
• Lastly, spray on some Chrysal Professional Glory to prevent evaporation from the leaves and petals, keeping the bouquet fresher for longer.   

Keen to plant some Ranunculus bulbs of your own? 

If reading up on Ranunculi has got you feeling inspired to grow your own Ranunculus bulbs, you can plant them until mid-June, so hurry along!