Description
Blue and White Garden Blend
The Blue & White Garden Blend is a striking mix of spring-flowering perennials with elegant blue and white blooms. It includes Ranunculi with rose-like flowers, Anemones with poppy-like blooms, fragrant Freesias, and delicate Scillas. Originating from the Mediterranean, South Africa, and Europe, these perennials offer diverse textures and forms.
With varying heights and extended bloom times, this blend thrives in sun and partial shade, flowering from mid-winter to late spring. Ideal for seasonal beauty, naturalised drifts, and cut flowers, it brings colour, fragrance, and charm throughout the season.
Uses in the Garden
- Seasonal colour – Ideal for brightening beds, borders, and naturalising.
- Containers & all spaces – A great choice for patios, balconies, and gardens of any size.
- Cut flowers – Long-lasting and perfect for bouquets.
- Layered planting – Complements other spring-flowering bulbs for a full display.
Climate Preferences
These bulbs can be grown in a range of climates, from cool to subtropical regions. They favour warm, dry conditions and areas with temperatures down to 0°C. Anemones and Scillas are more tolerant, with Scillas best suited to climates up to arid regions. For best results, plant in a sheltered spot to protect stems and flowers.
- Ranunculi & Anemones – Need 6+ hours of sun, tolerating partial shade.
- Scillas – Prefer full sun in cool areas, dappled light when warmer.
- Freesias – Thrive in full sun but need light shade in heat.
How to Plant
Planting Time and Soil Preparation
Plant from March onwards, allowing corms and bulbs to establish before winter for strong spring growth. Well-draining soil is essential—improve heavy clay with compost and sand for better drainage.
Depth & Spacing
- Ranunculi – 4 cm deep (cool climates), 8 cm deep (warmer), 10–15 cm apart.
- Anemones – 4–8 cm deep, 15 cm apart in beds, 7–10 cm in pots.
- Freesias – 7 cm deep, 5–10 cm apart.
- Scillas – 10 cm deep (cool climates), 15 cm deep (warmer), 10 cm apart.
Pre-Planting Preparation
- Ranunculi & Anemones – Soak corms in lukewarm water for 1–4 hours before planting to speed up sprouting.
- Freesias & Scillas – No soaking required, simply plant directly into well-prepared soil.
Watering & Fertilising
- After planting, water thoroughly to settle the soil.
- Once shoots appear, water when the topsoil dries slightly to avoid rot. Scillas benefit from more consistent moisture.
- Apply liquid fertiliser when buds form to support continuous flowering.
- Mulch around plants to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Aftercare & Dormancy
- Reduce watering as foliage dies back in late spring.
- Ranunculi & Anemones – Frost-tolerant once established. Start young Ranunculi in a warm spot. In hot, humid areas, lift and store them in a cool, dry place. Replace every 1-3 years.
- Freesias – Can stay in the ground with mulch but should be lifted in heavy frosts (below 0°C.), humidity, or wet summers to prevent rot. Replace every 2-3 years.
- Scillas – Can stay in the ground for years.
Pests & Diseases
These plants are low maintenance, but watch for:
- Aphids, slugs & snails – Use organic deterrents or hand-pick pests.
- Powdery mildew & fungal issues – Ensure good airflow and avoid overhead watering.
- Bulb/corm rot – Use well-draining soil and avoid excessive watering.
Cut Flowers & Floral Displays
These blooms are ideal for floral arrangements, offering long vase life:
- Ranunculi & Anemones – Multi-petaled, elegant flowers lasting 7–10 days in a vase.
- Freesias – Fragrant blooms lasting up to three weeks indoors.
- Scillas – Delicate, natural-style flowers that add woodland charm.
Cut Flower Care
For longer-lasting blooms, harvest in the morning when buds show colour. Trim stems at an angle, place them in cool water, and refresh them every few days.
Safety Considerations
- Ranunculi & Anemones – Not classified as toxic but should not be eaten.
- Scillas – Harmful if eaten; plant with caution.
- Freesias – Non-toxic, making them a great choice for family-friendly gardens.
- Skin-friendly; gloves optional for sensitive skin.
Supplied as dormant bulbs.