Growing Guides: How to grow Anemones
Anemone bulbs are fairly hardy and do best in dappled shade. When planted in rich soil, they are more likely to seed and become naturalized. Plant anemone bulbs in the fall in a semi-shaded or not too sunny location. Take care not to situate them in a location that will become overly hot and dry in the summertime when the bulbs are dormant.
Planting amenone bulbs:
- In zone 3-7 it's best to plant Anemones in early spring. In zone 8-10 you can also plant in the fall. Choose a spot that is partially shaded and has reasonably well-draining soil.
- Anemone bulbs are hard and somewhat shriveled looking. Before planting, they benefit from a 2-4 hour soak in a bowl of lukewarm water to soften then a little.
- Planting anemone bulbs is fairly simple. It is usually not possible to tell which side of the bulb the shoots will grow out of, but that's not a problem. Whichever way up you plant anemone bulbs, the bulb figures it out and sends shoots up to the surface!
- Follow the rule of thumb when planting bulbs and give the bulbs at least 2 times their height of soil above them. Dig a 2-3 inch deep hole, drop the bulb into it and cover with soil.
- Regarding the spacing between bulbs, if planting in beds, leave approx 2 inches between each cluster of bulb. If you are planting in containers, you can space them a little closer together.
- After planting, water well so that the soil above the bulbs settles.
- Anemone bulbs will flower in the Spring. After the flowers die down, the plant can enjoy a warmer rest period. You don't have to water too much during this rest period. Try to leave the leaves as they are so that they can gather sunlight and create food for future growth periods. As foliage yellows, it can be removed.