Salmon Ranunculus

Ranunculus have spectacular looking blooms and make for long lasting cut flowers. Growing ranunculus can be tricky. These bulbs can be planted in the fall or spring, depending on where you live. In warmer USDA zones, they are considered cool-season perennials. Ranunculus is popular in the southern and western United States (zones 7 and above), where they are planted in the fall, grow through the winter season and bloom in March. They are very sensitive to frost.

In zones 6 and below we suggest only planting ranunculus tubers in the spring as they are not very cold hardy. They should be planted outdoors after the last frost date.

Ranunculus are also popular for indoor planting. If you live in a colder zone (zone 6 or below) and wish to get an early start for your garden, ranunculus can be planted indoors as early as February, and can be transplanted outdoors after chance of frost. They'll begin blooming in June or July. Ranunculus can go dormant with too much heat, so don't place them near radiators.

Ranunculus prefer cool weather, require well-drained soil and full sun (except in warmer climates, where they will need light or partial shade). The tubers should be planted 2" beneath the soil surface, about 6" apart. Water after planting, soaking the area. Don't let the tubers sit in water or they will rot. After new shoots appear, keep the plants evenly moist.