Whether sociable as a white to soft pink carpet of flowers or in a solitary stand - wood anemones are welcome messengers of spring. This makes them valuable guests in the garden. But how do you plant them?
When and how should you plant wood anemones?
Planting time for the wood anemone is between late summer and autumn. The root rhizomes should be soaked in water overnight before planting in a 10 cm deep planting hole enriched with compost. A partially shaded to light shaded location with permeable, loamy and slightly moist soil is favorable.
When is it planting time for the wood anemone?
The protected wood anemone, known botanically as Anemone Nemorosa, should be planted between late summer and autumn. Then it is in its resting period and has the opportunity to root well until spring.
How is the crop planted?
Pre-grown young plants are often available commercially in spring. But the brownish root rhizomes alone can also be planted in autumn. This is how it works:
- Soak root rhizomes in water overnight
- Dig a 10 cm deep planting hole
- Loose up the soil and add some compost
- Place root rhizomes 3 to 5 cm deep in the planting hole
- fill with soil
- press firmly and pour
Which location should you choose?
Wood anemones prefer to grow in partial shade to light shade. They are content with 2 hours of sunshine per day. Good locations are, for example, under deciduous trees, in meadows and in forests.
What should the soil be like?
Deep soil is necessary for the wood anemone to feel comfortable. It should have the following characteristics:
- permeable
- loamy
- fresh
- humos
- nutrient-rich
- neutral to slightly acidic (pH value between 6.5 and 7.5)
- slightly moist
Which plant neighbors are suitable/unsuitable?
Successful plant neighbors for the wood anemone are deciduous shrubs and trees, as well as plants that love similar site conditions, such as wild garlic, cranesbill, foxglove, Turk's-cuff lilies, bluebells, columbines, cowslips, violets, meadowfoam, etc.
What planting distance is required?
Ideally, a distance of 20 cm should be maintained between the individual wood anemones. These plants work best in groups of 10. Between 12 and 25 specimens can be planted in the ground per square meter.
Can you propagate the wood anemone easily and how?
The wood anemone can be propagated in winter using root cuttings. The sections are planted in another place. It also reproduces on its own at the site via self-sowing. Controlled sowing is also possible.
Tips & Tricks
Until planting, the roots should be stored in a cool and dry place so as not to lose energy.