Best Winter Bulbs for Cut Flowers in South Africa
If you want long stems and vase life, choose varieties bred for performance and plant them like a cut-flower crop (not like a single “feature bulb”). Here are the best winter bulbs for cut flowers in South Africa — plus practical tips to get better stems.
Top winter bulbs for cut flowers
1) Ranunculus (florist favourite)
Ranunculus produces multi-petalled blooms with excellent value per square metre. Plant in full sun, in free-draining soil, and keep moisture steady.
2) Anemones (bold colour, great vase life)
Anemones give high-impact colour and pair perfectly with ranunculus for a “florist mix”.
3) Tulips (clean stems, premium look)
Tulips are iconic cut flowers. In many SA regions, chilling or cold-treated bulbs makes a big difference to uniform flowering.
4) Freesias (scent + sprays)
Freesias are excellent for cutting and fragrance. Harvest when the first florets start to open.
5) Daffodils (early spring cuts)
Daffodils are reliable and cheerful, but keep them separate from other flowers in a mixed vase at first (some varieties release sap).
How to get longer stems (quick grower tips)
- Sun: aim for 6+ hours
- Spacing: plant closer for “cut production” (more stems per area)
- Water: evenly moist, never waterlogged
- Feed: light feeding once growth starts; don’t overdo nitrogen
- Harvest stage: pick at the right stage for maximum vase life
Start here
Planning dates? Use the Winter Bulb Calendar.
