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Planting Guide

How to Plant Anemone Bulbs

Planting guide

A Complete Planting Guide for Canadian Gardeners

Anemones are cheerful, poppy-like flowers loved for their bright colours and long bloom time. Grown from small corms, anemones are easy to grow and work beautifully in garden beds, containers, and cut-flower gardens.

This guide explains when and how to plant anemone bulbs, including soaking, spacing, and cold-climate care.

When to Plant Anemone Bulbs

Anemone corms can be planted in spring or fall, depending on when you receive them.

  • Plant anemones in the same season they arrive
  • Corms do not store well long-term
  • In mild winter zones, plant anemones in the fall for earlier spring blooms

For best results, plant as soon as possible after receiving your bulbs.

Where to Plant Anemones

Anemones grow best in full sun with fertile, well-draining soil that stays lightly moist.

Ideal planting locations include:

  • Garden borders
  • Rock gardens
  • Raised beds
  • Containers

Anemones are naturally deer resistant and low maintenance once established.

Cold Climate Tips for Canadian Gardens

In regions with harsh winters regularly below –5°C, extra protection is recommended.

  • Start fall-planted anemones in small pots (around 9 cm)
  • Place pots in a bright, sheltered outdoor area
  • Move them to a cool, frost-free location during extreme cold

Avoid placing newly planted anemones in warm indoor rooms, as they prefer cool conditions while establishing.

Soaking Anemone Corms Before Planting

Before planting, soak anemone corms in plain water for 3 to 12 hours.

Soaking helps:

  • Rehydrate dry corms
  • Speed up sprouting
  • Encourage stronger early growth

Plant immediately after soaking.

How Deep to Plant Anemone Bulbs

  • Plant depth: 5 cm (2 inches)
  • Spacing: 10 cm (4 inches) apart

If the corm shape is unclear, plant it on its side. Anemones will orient themselves as they grow.

For a natural look, scatter corms evenly rather than planting in straight rows.

Watering After Planting

After planting:

  • Cover with soil and firm gently
  • Water lightly to settle the soil

Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged throughout the growing season. During dry spells, water occasionally to support healthy growth and flowering.

Anemone Care and Maintenance

Anemones are easy to care for once established.

  • Minimal fertilizing required
  • Few pest or disease issues
  • Excellent for naturalized planting

Allow foliage to die back naturally after flowering so the corm can store energy for the next season.

Why Grow Anemones in Your Garden

  • Bright, long-lasting blooms
  • Excellent cut flowers
  • Compact growth for small spaces
  • Well suited to Canadian climates

Anemones pair beautifully with tulips, ranunculus, and spring perennials.

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