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Help growing Allium Giganteums

8 years ago

Looking to plant some Alliums, (Ornamental Onions') ready for next year. Tried last year but I think I maybe was too late in Winter. I watered them all early on and used Miracle Grow to get them going but had a few rotten bulb failures this year with them sad to report.

It could be that I used varieties that were not to fresh or hardy. I actually planted Globemaster and Giganteum like these ones http://www.angliabulbs.com/giant-allium-collections/details/

I think there may be some more hardy varieties maybe. I could try something else if anyone has any suggestiuons. It could just be me that managed to get them wrong when I watered them in clay soil?

Must admit that I am a beginner when it comes to planting bulbs but am keen to get some green fingers. Moving onto vegetables too soon!

If anyone has any planting and growing tips then that would be appreciated by me for sure.

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Comments (2)

sturgeonguy
8 years ago
Alliums in general like well drained soil...yes, they love water, but it can't sit there (or below the surface) or the bulbs will rot. This year has been hard on alliums, spring wasn't wet enough and then this hot and wet weather has made them do some strange things (like bolt when they shouldn't, which you'd be thrilled with, or bolt too fast, leading to smaller flowers). I'm not a fan of "fertilizers" that aren't from the rear end of an animal I recognize, so I'd forego Miracle Grow, if it were me. Normally, gigantic Globe Alliums come up in early June without any help; and if not June then July. Did you weed? You need to plant in mid October and cut back any growth after your first snowfall, to ensure they don't stress die in the fall.
Stefano Potter
Original Author
8 years ago
Thanks for your tips sturgeonguy, much appreciated.

Yes I did weed! I will try with alliums again in October and let you know how they grow!
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