Ranunculus flowers are truly one of the most gorgeous flower varieties. If you want to add these lovely blooms to your garden, this complete guide to Ranunculus corms (and how to pre-sprout them!), will make the planting process easy! Plus, if you follow these tips for pre-sprouting Ranunculus, you’ll enjoy your blooms extra early this spring!
Let’s dive into the details!
*Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links. All opinions and recommendations are my own.
What Are Ranunculus Corms?
Ranunculus flowers grow from unique structures called corms. These corms resemble little “claws”, with an “eye” on top. Larger corms are considered healthier than smaller corms, and are more likely to give you a stronger plant with more blooms.
Why You’ll Love Ranunculus Flowers In Your Garden
Simply put, Ranunculus flowers are stunning! They are always considered a favorite flower for gardeners, as they’re easy to grow, bring early blooms, and make a great cut flower. Ranunculus (also referred to as Persian Buttercup) have rose-like blooms with densely-packed delicate petals. They really are a showstopper in the garden and you won’t regret adding them to yours!
Ranunculus FAQ’s
- Are Ranunculus corms the same as Ranunculus bulbs? How about Ranunculus tubers? Yes! While Ranunculus corms are the official term, corms are like tubers, and tubers are like bulbs, so you may hear them referred to as any of these terms.
- Are Ranunculus perennials? Well, yes and no. In warmer climates (zones 8 and higher), Ranunculus can be left in the ground and will most likely grow back the next season. Ranunculus corms that are dug up from the soil and replanted are considered annuals.
- When do Ranunculus Bloom? Ranunculus typically bloom in spring and early summer, 90 days after planting in the soil.
- Do Ranunculus make good cut flowers? YES! Ranunculus make fantastic cut flowers, and they’re often used in floral arrangements and bridal bouquets.
- What colors are Ranunculus flowers? Ranunculus are available in all different color varieties from soft pastel pinks, to classic whites, to bright pinks, to deep reds, and more!
- When do you plant Ranunculus corms? In warmer zones, zone 8 and higher, you’re able to plant Ranunculus corms in the fall for spring blooms, while colder areas, zones 7 and lower, will have better luck with a spring planting. (Zone 7 can try for fall planting, but it’s not guaranteed).
- Can you grow Ranunculus in pots? Yes! Ranunculus are a great flower choice for pots and containers.
- Do Ranunculus rebloom in the same season? If you deadhead Ranunculus (removing the dead flowers once spent), they do rebloom!
What are some popular Ranunculus varieties?
- The Classics: These gorgeous and classic blooms come in a wide range of colors and are known for their reliability and big, beautiful blooms: ‘Tecolote’, or ‘Picotee’.
- Bicolors: Bicolor varieties are also available that boast stunning color combinations such as this lovely ‘Pink Confetti’ variety.
- Mixes & Blends: If you don’t know which variety to choose, Ranunculus mixes and blends are a great option! Some beautiful Ranunculus blends are: ‘Pastel Mix’, ‘Porcelaine‘, ‘Bridal Mix’, and ‘Wedding Pastel’
Pre-Sprouting Ranunculus Corms: Get Earlier Spring Blooms!
While it’s typical to plant Ranunculus corms directly in the ground, pre-sprouting them offers several advantages, including:
- Earlier blooms: You can enjoy your stunning Ranunculus flowers weeks earlier than if you planted directly outdoors.
- Stronger plants: Pre-sprouted corms are more established and have a better chance of thriving and producing multiple blooms.
- Reduced risk of rot: By controlling moisture and temperature, pre-sprouting helps prevent the corms from rotting in the ground.
When Should I Pre-Sprout Ranunculus Corms?
Pre-sprout your ranunculus corms 6-8 weeks before your last expected frost date. The pre-sprouted corms take 2 weeks to sprout indoors, and should be planted in your garden 4-6 weeks before the last frost.
Here’s how to easily pre-sprout Ranunculus corms:
Gathering Supplies:
- Ranunculus corms
- Bucket, bowl, or large plastic cups
- Room-temperature water
- Seed tray or shallow container
- Potting mix (well-draining and sterile)
- Spray bottle
- Cool, dark location (basement, garage, refrigerator)
The Sprouting Process:
- Soaking Prep: Label large plastic cups with your Ranunculus corm varieties (I simply use a Sharpie). Fill large plastic cups with room temperature water 3/4 to the top.
- Hydration: Soak your Ranunculus corms in this room temperature water for 3-4 hours. (Optional extra step: Change the water every hour to keep it fresh and aerated). This will plump up the corms and encourage them to sprout.
- Potting Soil Prep: I find it easiest to pour the potting soil into a large bowl or bucket, and gradually add water until the soil can “form” into a clump when you place it between your hands. Use garden gloves to mix.
- Planting Prep: Fill your seed tray or container with an inch or 2 of the moistened potting mix, leaving about 1-2 inches of space at the top.
- Planting the Corms: Place the soaked corms on the potting mix with the “eyes” (growing points) facing upwards, (the tentacles/tuberous fingers facing down). Gently cover them with a thin layer of additional potting mix, ensuring they are completely buried. Add a label to keep track of different Ranunculus corms and their corresponding Ranunculus variety.
- Moisture Management: Lightly mist the soil surface to keep it moist but not soggy. Avoid overwatering, as this can lead to rot.
- Finding the Perfect Spot: Place your tray in a cool, dark location with temperatures between 40-50°F (4-10°C). A basement, garage, or even a cold corner of your refrigerator can work well.
- Checking On The Corms: If possible, check on your ranunculus corms every few days to make sure the soil isn’t drying out. Add a bit of water to keep moist (not drenched!).
- Sprouting: Be patient! Within 1-2 weeks, you should see little white roots and shoots emerging from the corms. Once the sprouts are about 1-2 inches tall, you can move the tray to a brighter location, like a windowsill with indirect sunlight.
- Gradually Acclimate: Before planting outdoors, harden off your pre-sprouted Ranunculus by gradually exposing them to outdoor conditions for a week or two. Start with a few hours outside in sheltered shade, then gradually increase the time and exposure to direct sunlight.
How To Plant Ranunculus Corms:
- Find The Perfect Spot: Select an area that has full sun, and rich well-draining soil.
- Enrich The Soil: Prior to planting, incorporate several inches of compost into the soil.
- Spacing: Plant the Ranunculus corms 2 inches deep and 9 inches apart.
- Protect From Frost: If there is a chance of freeze in the forecast, the soil bed should be covered with metal hoops and frost cloth, secured closed with landscape staples. The leaves of the Ranunculus can tolerate frost, but the roots should never experience freeze. When it is no longer freezing, remove the frost cloth.
- Protect Growth: Keep the planting bed weed-free, and fertilize (a fish emulsion fertilizer is a great option) as needed.
Pro Tips:
- Label your corms with the specific ranunculus variety name before soaking to keep track of different types.
- Use a sterile potting mix (to prevent diseases).
- You want your potting soil mix to be damp but still hold “form” (you don’t want it soaking wet)
- If you don’t have a cool location, you can pre-sprout your corms for a shorter time (5-7 days) at room temperature, but be extra careful with moisture management.
- Once hardened off, plant your pre-sprouted Ranunculus in well-draining soil when the danger of frost has passed and soil temperatures are consistently above 50°F (10°C).
Ranunculus Bloom Time:
Ranunculus flowers do best in cool weather when nights are 45-50 degrees and days are full of sunshine and 60-70 degrees. They’ll bloom approximately 90 days after planting. Pre-sprouted corms will bloom 3 weeks earlier than dry corms planted directly into the garden- so your work will pay off!
Cut Ranunculus Flowers (And tips to extend their vase life!):
When the flowers are in full bloom, take advantage of their beauty and be sure to cut Ranunculus to bring inside. For the longest vase life with your cut flower, harvest Ranunculus at the base of the stem, when the flower is half open. The bud should be showing color, and the center should be a bit soft to the touch. Ranunculus cut at this bloom time, will last in a vase for about 1-2 weeks.
Bonus Tip: Once the flowers fade, snip off the dead blooms to encourage more. You can even dig up the corms after they’re done growing and store them for next year!
Where can I purchase Ranunculus corms?
Local garden nurseries should carry Ranunculus corms, but if you want a reputable source to ensure healthy corms, and you more Ranunculus options available, these are some I recommend:
- Italian Ranunculus Elegance La Dolce Vita
- Italian Ranunculus Elegance Rosa Chiaro
- Italian Ranunculus Elegance Bianco Striato
- Italian Ranunculus Elegance Bianco
- Italian Ranunculus Elegance Crema
- Italian Ranunculus Elegance Bianco Sfumato
- Italian Ranunculus Elegance Salmone
- Ranunculus White
- Ranunculus Pink
Above Images Sourced From: Dutch Grown
- White Ranunculus
- Pink Confetti
- Bridal Mix
- Marshmallow
- Homecoming
- Purple Jean
- Porcelaine
- Wedding Pastel
- Romantic Mix
Images Sourced From: Eden Brothers
With a little patience, you’ll have healthy and gorgeous Ranunculus blooms that will brighten your garden well into spring! Happy planting!
Helpful Items:
- Seed Tray
- Potting Soil
- Garden Gloves
- Plastic Cups
- Plant Labels
- Plant Covers and Garden Staples (if risk of frost)
- Wooden Garden Tools For Planting
( **If you LOVE all things Home & Garden, including the most gorgeous flowers for your garden, be sure to FOLLOW ALONG ON PINTEREST! )
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