Ranunculus are colorful spring flowers that quickly conjure up a special atmosphere in the garden and on the balcony. The species, also known as the Asian buttercup, belongs to the species-rich genus Ranunculus (buttercup family). The incised leaves are reminiscent of a buttercup and can be smooth or slightly hairy. The decorative flowers sit on stalks about 10 to 15 cm high and are semi-double or double-flowering. From March, the herbaceous plants decorate balcony boxes, pots, the bed in the garden or the cemetery without much care.

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Things to know about ranunculus

Botanical name: Ranunculus asiaticus
Other names: Ranunculus, Ranunculus
Use: balcony plant, bowl planting, bedding plant, container plant, cut flower
Origin: Orient
Flower colors: yellow, white, orange, pink, red, multicolored varieties, fringed varieties
Flowering period: March to June
Special features: The The cut flower, popular in spring, can be planted as a balcony plant from the end of March or as a tuber from May. Light frosts are tolerated, but the species is not hardy and the tubers must be overwintered frost-free. Protect with fleece in light frost.

In which location does Ranunculus asiaticus feel most comfortable?

Outdoors

Ranunculus prefer a light and sunny spot outdoors. It is best if they are protected from the blazing midday sun. Look for well -drained soil with a pH of 5.5 to 6.5 and a good proportion of humus. Even soil moisture is an advantage, waterlogging should be avoided at all costs. Heavy soil should be improved with sand and plant substrate before planting.

Tip: The sunnier the place in the garden or on the balcony, the shorter the flowering period of these undemanding plants.

in the house

Ranunculus is suitable as a houseplant for a short time. The colorful plants do well in a bright, not too sunny place. The cooler the location, the longer the shelf life. A house entrance that is not too warm or the stairwell is ideal. In the heated living room, the buttercup is a floral decoration comparable to a bouquet of flowers that blooms for a maximum of 1 week at temperatures above 20 °C.

What is the best way to plant my ranunculus?

planting material

Ranunculus are mainly planted as seasonal flowering plants in spring. In combination with forget-me-nots, daffodils, daisies, primroses and much more, colorful window boxes and containers can be designed. Even in groups on the bed or grave, the classics bring color quickly and easily after the winter. It is best if you plant the buttercup from the culture pot in a larger container or in the ground. By repotting, you give the flowering plant a larger root volume and reduce the watering effort. However, repotting is not absolutely necessary. Use good quality potting soil for repotting and add a layer of expanded clay to the container for better drainage.

tubers

Another option for planting Ranunculus is by tubers. Like dahlias and gladioli, these hard storage organs can be placed outdoors from May. It is important that the soil is deeply loosened and free of weeds. When planting, make sure the toes are pointing down with their tips. If planted early, the young plants may be damaged by late frost. The young foliage in particular is sensitive to frost.

Our gardening tip: before planting, soak the tubers in a bucket of water for 24 hours to allow them to swell.

What is the best way to care for my ranunculus?

In addition to the constant water supply, Ranunculus only requires regular cleaning of the withered flowers. With the right care, new buds are formed and no seed formation takes place. Fertilization is not necessary when using high-quality potting soil. The duration of flowering essentially depends on the temperature and the amount of sunlight. After flowering, further cultivation is usually unsuccessful.

How do I water and fertilize my ranunculus?

Ranunculus are extremely easy-care plants, but regular watering is essential. How often you have to water depends largely on the location and the radiation. The so -called demand- oriented watering means the even moisture in the soil. When watering, make sure that the water does not get over the flower and that the soil dries up a little before the next watering.

The nutrient content in the pot when you buy it is sufficient for the plant and therefore fertilization is not absolutely necessary. If necessary, liquid fertilization can be carried out with high-quality garden fertilizer. It is important that the root ball is well moist to avoid root damage.

Ranunculus bulbs are supplied with flower bulb power when planted and continue to grow well without additional fertilizer. On light sandy soils, additional fertilization with organic fertilizer can be carried out after sprouting.

Our gardening tip: Above all, protect the young shoots from snails.

pests and diseases

With proper ranunculus care, disease rarely occurs. As with other plants, pests can infest the garden and specimens in pots. The most common is aphid infestation, but this does not play a major role and usually only represents a visual impairment. If the infestation is severe, the affected leaf or plant can be removed.

 

FAQ — Frequently asked questions about Ranunculus

How does such ranunculus multiply?

The most common method of propagation is division. Using a sharp knife or spade, divide large tubers before planting in the ground in spring. Propagation by seeds plays a role in breeding.

How sensitive to frost are ranunculus?

Temperatures between 10 and 15°C are ideal for outdoor plants. Low temperatures are not optimal, especially for plants that come out of the greenhouse or for the new growth of the tubers. With a winter protection such as fleece you can protect the plants if necessary. Basically, the spring bloomers are not considered hardy, but in mild regions the plant can delight with colorful flowers in the second year. Wetness is usually the problem in winter and the tubers rot. In principle, the flowers tolerate temperatures down to 0°C without damage. With proper overwintering, the Ranunculaceae are perennial.

How do I overwinter the tubers correctly?

The right place for storing the storage organs is light, dry and at temperatures around 5°C. Unheated basements or frost-free garages are ideal for winter storage. In October, dig up the storage organs and place them in buckets filled with sand at the wintering site until spring. Watering is not necessary during this time.

How long do ranunculus last in a vase?

In the optimal location, the buttercup is a durable flower in the vase. With a shelf life of up to 10 days, the colorful flowers in bright colors or stylish white delight. Regular water changes are part of maintenance.

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