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Posting plants since 1994
No Quibble GuaranteeHow to grow Scilla
Spring bloomers that will quickly and pleasantly naturalise into a carpet of colour when planted beneath shrubs and trees, near streams and ponds or in a woodland setting.
Scilla are perennial bulbs with narrow leaves and flat, star-shaped or bell-shaped flowers which are very often blue in colour but can also be white, pink or purple. They are native to Europe, Africa and the Middle-East in woodlands, seashore and subalpine meadows. Perfect for informal or cottage planting, gravel or rock gardens, courtyard gardens in containers or at the front of borders. Scilla are usually untroubled by rodents and deer.
Key Information
Soil pH
Position
Hardiness
Where & when to plant Scilla
The best time for planting Scilla bulbs is in the autumn so they can put down roots before the worst of the winter. Scilla prefer to be grown in moist, well-drained soil that does not get waterlogged. If required, you may need to add horticultural grit to aid drainage or organic matter to retain moisture. They are happy planted in pots and containers as well as the ground and are best suited to an area of sun or part shade.
How to plant Scilla
Plant at a depth of around 5-10cm, so the tip of the bulb sits just below the surface of the soil. For a natural look, plant in clusters of up to 12 with a spacing of 5cm between. Chose a site where they will get a lot of light.
How to care for Scilla
Water regularly during the growing period but be careful not to overwater as the bulbs may rot if waterlogged.
Leave the foliage to continue growing after the flowers have finished, this helps the bulb store energy for the following year. Allow it to fade naturally which usually takes 2-3 weeks before removing it. If growing in grass, do not mow until it has fully faded. The bulbs will remain dormant until the spring.
It is possible to propagate Scilla by seed or division by lifting the clump, dividing the bulbs and replanting with more room.
