Starting Ranunculus

If you're dreaming of vibrant, rose-like blossoms in soft pastel colours (think blush, apricot, and cream), ranunculus should be at the top of your cutting-garden list.

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In my region Langley, British Columbia (zone 8B), ranunculus thrives in cool weather and rewards patience with stunning, long-lasting blooms in the spring perfect for bouquets, weddings and flower arrangements. When properly cared for, ranunculus typically has a vase life of up to two weeks. One healthy ranunculus plant can typically produce anywhere from 5-15 blooms over a 4-7 week period.

When to Start Ranunculus

In my zone, the ideal time to start ranunculus corms is mid to late winter, typically late January through February. Planting at this time gives the roots a chance to establish before warmer temperatures kick in. Ranunculus typically takes 90-120 days to bloom, depending on temperatures and growing conditions.

Pre-sprouting Ranunculus

• Soak corms in lukewarm water for 3-5 hours. I typically change the water every hour to prevent bacteria build up.

• Place ranunculus in a shallow tray filled with a few inches of soil with the claw side facing down.

• Cover ranunculus with soil and store in a cool and dark location for approximately two weeks.

How to Plant

• After two weeks, your ranunculus corms should have pre-sprouted shoots, along with roots.

• Plant your pre-sprouted ranunculus into a site with full sun and well-drained soil with the claw side down.

• Space ranunculus 6 inches apart for good air-flow, about 2-3 inches deep. Make sure when you are backfilling, you are careful to not break off the shoots.

Planting Outside & Cold Protection

I plant my ranunculus outdoors and grow them under a low tunnel or frost protection when temperatures dip. This is especially helpful during the unpredictable early-spring weather we get in the Lower Mainland.

Ranunculus can tolerate a light frost and short dips to around -4° C but consistent protection helps to prevent stress and damage. Once they are established, they thrive in cool conditions and prefer the spring temperatures over the heat.

Growing Tips

• Amend your soil with compost for added nutrition and drainage.

• Ensure you are netting/supporting your ranunculus, due to their heavy blooms they can be prone to falling over in winds or if they are saturated with rain.

• Water regularly, especially once shots emerge, but avoid overwatering.

• Mulch lightly to keep soil cool and preserve moisture.

• Deadhead spent blooms to encourage more flowers.

  
  

Whether you're a home gardener or growing flowers for markets or events, ranunculus is a rewarding crop that offers strong stems, long vase life, and consistently high-quality blooms.

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Happy Planting!