Bulb Propagation: How To Multiply Your Favourite Flowers

Bulb propagation is all about multiplying flowers from the ones that you love. Whether you are a seasoned gardener or are just starting out, carry on reading this blog to find out what you need to know about bulb propagation.

Types of Bulbs

Bulbs themselves contain all the nutrients a plant needs to grow and flower, and lots of popular flowers including daffodils and tulips grow from bulbs. Bulb propagation is the art of dividing bulbs to create new plants.

Before we look at how to propagate bulbs it is important to understand the different types of bulbs as they have unique characteristics:

1. True bulbs: these are the traditional bulbs which have a fleshy inner core and a protective outer layer e.g. daffodils
2. Corms: these have a solid stem-like structure e.g. crocuses
3. Tubers: these have thickened underground stems e.g. dahlias
4. Rhizomes: these have horizontal stems that grow underground e.g. irises

Each of these different types of bulb can be propagated, there are just slightly different ways of doing so.

When To Propagate Bulbs

The best time to propagate bulbs is after they have finished flowering, as this is when the bulb no longer has to provide nutrients to the flower and this goodness stays within the bulb itself. For most spring-flowering bulbs, it is best to propagate these in late summer or early autumn, but you must wait until the plant has fully died back. Otherwise, the bulb will not have the nutrients required to support new growth.

Guide To Bulb Propagation

1. Choosing the right bulbs

The best bulbs to pick for propagation are those which look really healthy. They should be firm to touch, mould-free and have no visible damage to the outside. The stronger the bulbs you choose to propagate, the stronger the final plant will be.

2. Preparing the soil

Time should be spent preparing the soil where the propagated bulbs are going to grow. Well-drained, rich soil is ideal and you should plant them in a sunny area. If your soil retains water then consider adding extra compost or sand to help it drain.

3. Digging up the bulbs

Be very careful when digging up the bulbs you want to propagate to avoid damaging them. Use a garden fork or spade and gently lift the bulbs from the soil by hand without cutting the outer shell.

4. Dividing the bulbs

Once you have removed the bulbs from the ground, you can start dividing them up. The method you use for this entirely depends on the type of bulb:

• True bulbs: look for offsets (extra parts of bulb) growing around the main bulb. These smaller bulbs are easy to separate from the parent bulb just by peeling them off.
• Corms: these can be divided by cutting them evenly into sections, but make sure each piece has at least one bud. Be sure to dry the cut surfaces for a couple of days before planting these, otherwise they will rot.
• Tubers: similarly to corms, these bulbs also can be divided by cutting them into sections, each one with at least one growth point.
• Rhizomes: these can be divided by cutting them into sections, each with at least one bud. Make sure each section is large enough to support new growth.

5. Replanting the bulbs

Once the bulbs have been divided, the easy part is to replant them. Ideally, bulbs should be planted at a depth three times their height, and spaced according to their mature size. The larger the bulb, the more space they will need to grow and flower. Bulbs should always be planted with the pointed end facing up, but if the bulb doesn’t have a pointed end then ensure the roots are planted face-down. After planting the bulbs, make sure they are watered regularly to encourage the growth of their roots. Don’t overwater them though as they will rot quickly in waterlogged conditions.

6. Aftercare

There are a few things you can do to care for your newly planted bulbs. Firstly, you can apply a layer of mulch over them to keep the moisture locked in - compost or straw works well in this instance. Fertiliser can be added both when the bulbs are planted and again in spring to help them grow. It is also important to keep an eye out for pests including slugs and use organic insecticides where possible.

Successful Bulb Propagation

Bulb propagation is a lengthy process, so you do have to be patient. It can take as long as a year or two for the new bulbs to produce flowers, so don’t be disappointed if flowers don’t appear the following spring. By following the top tips above, you will be able to successfully propagate your favourite bulbs and create a stunning garden.

For advice on selecting the best flower bulbs for your gardening project, contact our knowledgeable team at Boston Bulbs on 01775 769333, or email sales@bostonbulbswholesale.co.uk. We have a wide range of bulbs available, with options to suit both novice and avid gardeners.

The Boston Bulb Company has over 40 years of experience in supplying only the finest quality horticultural products from farmers and growers throughout the UK and Europe.