Expert: Kenneth Joergensen - 4/20/2005

Question
Last week I planted 3 doz. ranunculus bulbs. Package said to plant with pointed end up.  So I planted with claw end up.  Later read two articles from internet that said to plant with claw end down.  Will they grow or should I try to dig them up and replant?  (Later noticed drawing on package was like a tulip bulb.)  Thanks

Answer
Oh yes.. isn't the pictured instructions lots of help ?? I have seen this picture of the tulip bulb with all different types of bulbs. Doesn't it just make you feel that they are trying to go the extra mile ?? (I am being ironic here. !!)

I would actually recommend diggig them up. sorry. I know this was NOT what you wanted to hear, but this would be my recommendation.

The rununculas bulb (actually a tuber, but dont worry about that) looks like octopus legs surrounding the crown (growth point). The "octopus legs" should be down and where they meet (the crown) should be just below soil surface. If you turned them upside down and the crown is 6" deep, it can still sprout but it is not ideal.

This is a picture of a ranunculus tuber:
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v345/kdjoergensen/misc/ranubulb.jpg

If you copy/paste the link into your browser, you can see how it should be planted. It is turned the way you would plant it (legs down, crown up.. I have heard it described like Radio City Dancers.. long legs pointing down, crowns up).

If your tubers were very dry (hard, compact) then soak them 5 minutes in water before replanting. Remember, wet and warm soil is bad news for these tubers. cold soil will help them get off to a good start. You planted them at a good time.

Kenneth