How to Grow Ornamental Allium Plants
Perennial
There are several hundred species of Alliums. Alliums are members of the
onion family....they ARE the onion family. Among the best known Alliums are
chives, onions, garlic, and shallot. For the flower gardener, there are many
varieties of Flowering Allium, also called "Flowering Onion".
This hardy, easy to grow flowering bulb comes in a wide variety of colors,
heights and blooming times. Big, multi-floreted, round blooms are produced
atop of a tall, sturdy spike. In general, they bloom from late spring
to early summer. Once established in your flower garden, they will likely
grow for many, many years with little attention.
As an ornamental, the largest, giant varieties are the most sought after.
They are also known as Allium Giganteum.
Propagation:
Ornamental Onions, or Alliums, are grown from bulbs. The flower head also
produces seeds, but most gardeners plant the easy to handle bulbs.
Plant Allium bulbs in the soil in the spring, as soon as the ground can be
worked. Plant them to a depth of twice the diameter of the bulb.
If planting Allium seeds, sow them directly into the garden, planting just
1/8" deep.
How to Grow Ornamental Allium Plants:
Growing Ornamental Alliums is very easy to grow. They like full sun to partial
shade. They tolerate poor soils, but prefer it to be well drained. Adding
a general purpose fertilizer once in early spring, will give them a boost
on the season.
Once your Ornamental Allium plants are established, they should grow well
with few problems. Keep the soil moist to slightly dry. Water them during
dry periods, once or twice per week. Keep them well weeded, or apply a 2-3
inch layer of mulch around the plants, for a tidy appearance.
Allium plants should come back yearly for many years.
Did You Know? Alliums make good cut flowers. But, they will give off
a slight onion scent... no surprise there!
Insect and Disease:
Alliums have few insect or disease problems.
More Information:
Buy
Ornamental Allium Bulbs A great source of spring and fall
bulbs and related supplies.
Buy Flower, Vegetable and Herb Seeds Finest quality
Ferry Morse Seed, America's oldest seed company with their famous "guarantee
to grow".
Buy Guarden Raised Garden Bed Frames Perfect for people
who aren't into building their own raised beds. These raised beds are attractive,
long lasting and affordable. Guarden raised bed frames are the strongest
in the industry. A greenhouse system can be added to them, too. |
