Ranunculus – Mixed – Large – 15 bulbs p-pack

Ranunculus (Persian buttercups) are highly prized for their lush, rose-like flowers in a mix of bright colors. Large corms produce bigger plants with more blooms, making them ideal for flower beds, borders, containers, and cut flower arrangements.

In South Africa, Ranunculus thrives when planted in autumn for spring flowering.

1. Best Growing Conditions

✅ Climate:

• Grows best in cooler temperatures (15–20°C).

• Planting time: Autumn (March–May) for spring blooms (August–October).

• Avoid extreme heat, which can shorten the flowering period.

• Ideal for regions with mild winters, such as the Western Cape, Highveld, and coastal areas.

✅ Soil Requirements:

• Well-draining, loamy or sandy-loam soil enriched with organic compost.

• pH: 5.5–7.0 (slightly acidic to neutral).

• Heavy clay soils should be amended with compost and sand to improve drainage.

2. Planting Large Ranunculus Corms

✅ Best Planting Time:

• March–May for August–October blooms.

• Soil temperature should be below 20°C for successful sprouting.

✅ Preparing the Corms:

• Soak corms in lukewarm water for 4–6 hours before planting.

• Let them dry slightly before planting to prevent rot.

✅ Planting Depth & Spacing:

• Depth: 5–7 cm deep, placing the claw-like roots facing downward.

• Spacing: 15–20 cm apart (since large corms produce bigger plants).

• Row spacing: 25–30 cm between rows for optimal airflow and growth.

3. Watering & Care

✅ Watering:

• Keep the soil evenly moist but not waterlogged.

• Water deeply 1–2 times per week, adjusting based on rainfall.

• Reduce watering when foliage starts to yellow, signaling dormancy.

✅ Fertilizing:

• Before planting, mix organic compost or well-rotted manure into the soil.

• During growth, apply a low-nitrogen, high-phosphorus fertilizer every 2–3 weeks to promote flowering.

• Avoid excessive nitrogen, which encourages foliage growth over blooms.

✅ Mulching:

• Apply a thin layer of organic mulch (straw, bark) to retain moisture and suppress weeds.

4. Pest & Disease Management

✅ Common Pests:

• Aphids, spider mites, and thrips – Use neem oil or insecticidal soap.

• Slugs and snails – Use organic slug pellets or copper tape.

✅ Common Diseases:

• Powdery mildew & botrytis (gray mold) – Improve airflow and avoid overhead watering.

• Root rot – Prevent by ensuring well-drained soil and avoiding excessive watering.

5. Flowering & Cutting for Arrangements

✅ Blooming Time:

• Flowers appear 8–12 weeks after planting (August–October).

✅ Cutting for Bouquets:

• Harvest when buds start to open for longer vase life.

• Cut early in the morning and place in cool water immediately.

• Large Ranunculus flowers last 7–10 days in a vase.

6. Storing Corms for Next Season

• After flowering, allow foliage to die back naturally.

• Lift corms from the soil, dry them thoroughly, and store in a cool, dry place (such as peat moss or sand).

• Replant in autumn for another season of stunning blooms.

7. Companion Planting & Crop Rotation

✅ Best Companion Plants:

• Tulips, daffodils, freesias, and crocuses for a colorful spring display.

• Low-growing flowers like alyssum or pansies to cover the soil.

✅ Crop Rotation:

• Rotate planting areas annually to reduce soil-borne diseases.

Conclusion

Ranunculus Mixed (Large Corms) thrives in cool South African autumns, rewarding growers with abundant, showy blooms in spring. With proper care, watering, and fertilizing, these large corms will produce bigger, longer-lasting flowers, making them a perfect choice for gardens and floral displays. 🌸🌿