How to plant ranunculus bulbs?

Florist's ranunculus (Ranunculus asiaticus) is a tuberous perennial, valued for its flowers in a range of colours, often double, which bloom from April to June. Easy to grow, they bring a bright touch to beds, borders and containers. To ensure successful planting of ranunculus bulbs (or rather "claws"), simply follow a few simple steps, whether planting in the ground or in pots. Discover our tips for successful ranunculus planting.

When to plant ranunculus?

When to plant ranunculus bulbs depends on region:

• In mild climates, ranunculus bulbs can be planted from autumn to enjoy early flowering.
• In cold climates, it is better to wait until spring to prevent the "claws" from freezing. You can also get a head start by planting ranunculus bulbs in pots, in a greenhouse or indoors from January/February.

Preparing ranunculus bulbs before planting

Before planting in the ground or in pots, it is important to:

1. Soak the "claws" for several hours (or overnight) in water to rehydrate them.
2. Check their condition and discard any that seem too soft or damaged.
3. Plant promptly after soaking, as the swollen bulbs dry out quickly.

How to plant ranunculus bulbs in the garden?

For abundant flowering, planting ranunculus should follow a few key steps:

1. Begin by choosing a sunny site in a light, well-drained soil, preferably sheltered from strong winds that could break the plants’ fine stems. In clay soil, lighten the ground with sand and well-rotted compost.
2. Work the soil to about 20 cm depth to loosen it. Remove stones and weeds.
3. Plant the "claws" about 5 cm deep. Position them correctly: the pointed end (the small “claws”) should face down, while the rounded central part should face up.
4. Leave 10 to 15 cm between each bulb. This spacing prevents competition between plants and creates airy clumps that showcase the ranunculus flowers.
5. Water lightly after planting to moisten the soil without waterlogging it. In cold regions, add a layer of mulch (dead leaves, hay, straw...) to protect the "claws" from frost.

Good to know: be vigilant, as slugs and snails love the first shoots of ranunculus.

How to plant ranunculus in pots or small pots?

Growing in pots is ideal for enjoying ranunculus on a balcony or terrace. Planting in small pots also lets you start ranunculus earlier in the season before transplanting to the garden. To succeed:

1. Choose a pot (or small pot) with drainage holes in the base, as ranunculus dislike stagnant water.
2. Add a 3 to 5 cm drainage layer of clay pebbles or gravel at the bottom of the pot to ensure good drainage.
3. Fill the pot (or small pot) with a mix of two-thirds quality potting compost and one-third sand or perlite. This light substrate encourages root development and reduces risk of rot.
4. Plant the "claws" 4–5 cm deep, always with the claw ends down and the rounded central part up.
   Note:
   - In a medium pot (30 cm diameter), you can place 5–6 bulbs for a good flowering density.
   - In a small pot, plant a single ranunculus bulb.
5. Water moderately to moisten the soil. Then maintain regular moisture, especially during growth, but allow the substrate to dry slightly between waterings.
6. Place the pot in a bright, sunny spot, but sheltered from strong winds. Small pots should be kept under a greenhouse.

Caring for ranunculus after planting

Watering ranunculus

• In the ground, water moderately at planting, then only if the soil dries out.
• In pots, water needs are more regular: the soil should remain slightly moist, but allow the surface to dry between waterings to avoid rot of the "claws".

Removing spent flowers

Remove spent flowers regularly to encourage new buds and prolong flowering. Use a clean pruning shear to cut the stem at the base without damaging the foliage.

Protecting ranunculus from cold

Ranunculus bulbs are sensitive to frost:

• In the ground, mulch generously around the plants to reduce winter damage. It is also possible to lift the "claws" when they go dormant, then store them somewhere frost-free and dark to replant the following spring.
• In pots, bring containers indoors to a greenhouse, an unheated conservatory or a bright but cool room.