Buying Ranunculus?

The ranunculus is a beautiful addition to anyone's garden. Behind the small claw-shaped corms lies the most layered, elegant flower of spring. Looking to buy ranunculus? At Bulbs4you, you'll find a wide variety of colorful options, carefully selected for you.

Why ranunculus in your garden?

Ranunculus are also known as Persian buttercups. They bloom precisely when tulips have faded and dahlias are just starting to emerge. This way, they fill that gap with an elegance few other flowers can match. Moreover, they are excellent cut flowers that remain beautiful in a vase for seven to ten days. Once you've had ranunculus in your garden, you won't want to be without them.

What types of ranunculus are there?

Ranunculus come in two main groups. Ranunculus asiaticus, also known as the garden ranunculus or Persian buttercup, is the large species we all know. This is the type of ranunculus you buy in our webshop: colorful, elegant, and perfect as a cut flower. Within our assortment, you'll find a wide color palette from white and yellow to pink, red, and purple. Popular choices include the Amandine Salmon, the Amandine Violet, and the Amandine Barbie.

When do you plant ranunculus bulbs? 

Ranunculus love cool and moist conditions. That makes them a little different from most summer bulbs. Preferably plant the corms in early spring, as soon as the ground is no longer frozen. March and April are the ideal months. Ranunculus prefer to start slowly in cooler conditions.

One tip you shouldn't skip: soak the claw-shaped corms for three to four hours in lukewarm water before planting them. They will then absorb water, become softer, and root much faster. It may sound like a small detail, but you'll see the direct effect in their bloom.

When do ranunculus bloom?

Ranunculus typically bloom about 90 days after planting. If you plant them in April, you'll enjoy the flowers in June and July. The flowering period then lasts 4 to 6 weeks. Delightful enjoyment of the beautiful color in summer.

How do you plant ranunculus bulbs?

Planting a ranunculus bulb is not difficult, but it is important to follow the correct steps. If you do, you will be rewarded with flowers that will make the whole neighborhood jealous. Here's how to do it:

1. Soak the corms for three to four hours in lukewarm water before you start
2. Choose a sunny spot with airy, well-draining soil
3. Dig a planting hole about five centimeters deep
4. Place the claw-shaped corm with the 'claws' pointing downwards
5. Maintain a planting distance of 10 to 15 centimeters between the corms
6. Cover them with soil and water carefully, not too much
   

How do you care for ranunculus plants?

The ranunculus is not a demanding plant, but there are a few things it really cares about:

• Water sparingly: The ranunculus wants moist soil, but absolutely no standing water. It's better to water a little less and more often than a lot at once. Does the soil feel moist one centimeter below the surface? Then it has enough.
• Remove spent flowers: Snip withered flowers directly back to the first leaf. This allows the plant to conserve energy for new buds and stay in bloom longer.
• Don't over-fertilize: A little nutrition in the spring is fine, but don't overdo it. Too much nitrogen will result in lush foliage at the expense of flowers.
  
  

How to combine ranunculus in the garden?

The ranunculus is a true vertical powerhouse. Tall, stately, and full of color. This also presents the biggest challenge, because how do you combine such a distinctive flower without it becoming too busy? Dahlias and perennials are the best neighbors for the ranunculus. Dahlias bloom in the same period, love the same sunny spot, and fill the border in a completely different way. Perennials such as salvia, ornamental grasses, or Rudbeckia, on the other hand, create a natural whole.

Buying ranunculus bulbs? Choose quality 

Have you become enthusiastic and want to grow ranunculus in your garden this season? Then check out our assortment of flower bulbs from the Bollenstreek. Every corm we send is carefully inspected for quality, so you can be sure you're getting a good start. Order on time, plant them in stages, and enjoy flowers from July deep into September. Benefit from free shipping on orders over €70.

Frequently asked questions about ranunculus

What kind of flower is a ranunculus?

A ranunculus (Ranunculus asiaticus) is a bulbous flower with full, layered blooms that remind many people of a peony or a rosette. The petals are closely stacked in delicate layers, which makes them so exceptionally photogenic.

How should you prune ranunculus?

Ranunculus hardly need pruning during flowering. However, do regularly remove withered flowers.

Are ranunculus winter hardy?

No, ranunculus are not winter hardy in the Netherlands. The corms cannot tolerate frost and must be removed from the ground before the first night frost. This is usually done in September or October. Allow the corms to dry thoroughly, then store them dry and frost-free in a cool place.

Why aren't my ranunculus blooming?

There are a few common causes for this. These include planting too deep or overwatering. Too little sun is also often not a good sign for ranunculus.

Are ranunculus poisonous?

Yes, ranunculus are mildly poisonous to both humans and pets. The plant contains protoanemonin, a substance that can cause skin irritation upon contact and symptoms such as nausea or a burning sensation in the mouth if ingested. For healthy adults, the risk is small, but be mindful if you have young children or pets roaming in the garden.

How long do ranunculus bloom?

A ranunculus blooms for an average of four to six weeks. If you plant them in March or April, you'll enjoy the flowers from June to July.