Squills, sometimes also squills, are decorative spring bloomers that prove to be robust and easy to care for under the right conditions. The location is of great importance so that the onion plants shine in their full glory. If the conditions are not right, the plants grow poorly.
What are the special features of squills?
Squills, also known as squills, are attractive spring bloomers that bloom in various shades of blue. They prefer partially shaded locations with nutrient-rich, humus-rich soil and thrive under deciduous trees. As bulbous plants, they are robust and easy to care for, but all parts of the plant are poisonous.
Origin
Squills belong to the genus Scilla within the asparagus family. The genus can be defined in a narrow or broader sense. Some botanists also place closely related species such as the Spanish harebell (Hyacinthoides hispanica) or the Siberian squill (Othocallis siberica) in the genus Scilla. Therefore, depending on the source, there are between 30 and 90 species of squill. The reasons for these different opinions are the external similarity of the plants and their common habitat requirements.
Their distribution area extends across Europe to large parts of Asia. There are isolated habitats on the African continent where squills grow. The two-leaved squill (Scilla bifolia) is a popular ornamental plant for gardens and parks. The species originally comes from warmer regions such as France, Spain and Italy. There are other areas of the species in southern and central Germany, where the squill inhabits forests and meadows.
Other ornamental plants and their distribution:
- Siberian squill: Türkiye, Caucasus, Central Russia
- Mishchenko squill: Iran, Transcaucasia
- Cyclamen squill: Türkiye, Transcaucasia
Growth
Squills grow as perennial and herbaceous plants. As so-called geophytes, Scilla species develop an underground bulb with which they survive the winter. Up to five shoots sprout from the tuber in spring. Squills grow between ten and 50 centimeters high. As soon as the seeds have ripened, the above-ground parts of the plant die. The plant stores the excess energy in the bulb so that it can sprout again next spring.
leaves
When temperatures rise into double digits in spring, squills reveal their leaves. These sit in a basal leaf rosette and appear shiny green.
Bloom
Squills develop racemose inflorescences that stand at the end of an upright or rarely curved stem. They are single to multi-flowered. Some Scilla species have nodding flowers. Regardless of the species, all flowers consist of six similar bracts. They can stand free or be fused together at the bottom. There are flat petals or petals that are curved back at the tip.
Flowering time
Many squills are spring bloomers that show their flowers between February and April. This group includes all species that are cultivated as ornamental plants such as the two-leaved squill. There are some species that bloom throughout the summer until September. Scilla species shine in a wide variety of blue tones, some of which have purple nuances. Some varieties develop white petals.read more
Fruit
After successful fertilization, Scilla species develop capsule fruits. When the fruits are ripe, the stems bend towards the ground and the soft capsule opens on the pre-formed lobes. One fruit contains between three and 30 seeds. They fall out of the capsule when the stems are moved in the wind.
Usage
Squills decorate partially shaded spring beds. They can be planted under deciduous trees, where they will multiply over the next few years with the help of the bulbs. They fit perfectly into natural wild gardens, but the squill also provides decorative accents on an open lawn. If it is not disturbed, the squill turns the lawn into a sea of blue colors.
Scilla species create a harmonious impression when planted in groups with other bulbous plants. They thrive beautifully among snowdrops, winter aconites or crocuses. In pots and balcony boxes, the squill develops into a bright spring decoration. In combination with yellow or white blooming crocuses and small daffodils, a spring-like atmosphere is created.
Is squill poisonous?
Squills are poisonous in all parts of the plant. They contain saponins and glycosides, which have a negative effect on cardiac activity. The concentration is particularly high in onions and seeds. The transparent juice may cause irritation to those with sensitive skin.
Possible symptoms:
- Cardiac arrhythmias
- Nausea and diarrhea
- irritated and burning mucous membranes in the mouth and throat
Which location is suitable?
Scilla species prefer a place in partial shade. They thrive in sunny locations if the soil is moist enough. A location under light bushes and trees is ideal.
What soil does the plant need?
Squills grow on nutrient-rich and humus-rich soil that offers fresh to moist conditions. The roots cannot tolerate waterlogging, so the substrate should ensure high permeability. If the substrate is loose and moist, squills can adapt to different areas of life. In dry conditions, the early bloomers quickly stop growing. They grow in normal garden soil. Sandy-loamy soils are ideal.
Propagate squills
Squills can be propagated by dividing the bulbs. This measure is carried out after the flowering period, when the above-ground parts of the plant have died. Early flowering ornamental plants are divided in June. Dig the bulb out of the ground and separate the small sprouting bulbs from the main bulb. The onions are stored dark and dry until autumn. They can then be planted outdoors or grown in a pot.
pot culture
Place the tubers in a permeable and nutrient-rich substrate that is kept constantly moist. For the next ten to twelve weeks, the planter must be placed in a dark place so that enough roots develop. When the first leaves appear, the young plant can be accustomed to the light. Squills are grown in pots as an annual and then planted outdoors so that they can develop their full potential. If fresh onions have developed, they can be cultivated again in the pot.
Outdoor planting
From August to mid-October, the onions can be planted directly in the bed. Dig small planting holes ten centimeters deep and place the tubers in the hole with the tip facing upwards. Fill this with soil and press the substrate lightly. The substrate is moistened and covered with a layer of mulch.
The correct planting distance
Squills develop their full effect in small groups. They are placed ten centimeters apart from each other. You can plant the bulbs in rows and combine them with other early bloomers so that the bed always shines in different colors. Ideal planting partners are cowslips or larkspur.
Sowing
Pure wild species can easily be propagated from seeds. To do this, cut off the stems with closed capsule fruits and store them in a dry place. As soon as the capsules have cracked, you can collect the seeds. Use a mixture of peat and sand, perlite or expanded clay. Alternatively, you can use coconut fiber. Scatter the seeds thinly on the substrate and cover the grains with a little sand.
Conditions for germination:
- Temperature between 23 and 26 degrees Celsius
- half-shaded window seat
- even moisture
Watering Blue Starlets
The soil should be moist during the growing phase. Watering is usually not necessary in spring. When temperatures are high and there is a lack of rainfall, onion plants should be watered occasionally. Potted plants require more attention so that the substrate does not dry out. If you put the pot outside in spring, spring rainfall will ensure adequate watering.
Fertilize squills properly
An additional supply of nutrients is not necessary on a balanced subsoil with clay and sand. If you mix some compost into the substrate in spring shortly before budding, it will not harm the plant.
Cut squills correctly
Cutting measures are not necessary. After the flowering period, the wilting leaves should not be cut off, otherwise the plant will not be able to store enough nutrients in the bulb. As soon as the above-ground parts of the plant have died, they can be cut off close to the ground. If you don't use the scissors, soil organisms will decompose the material and ensure a natural supply of nutrients.
How do I transplant correctly?
Squills are transplanted as part of the division. By releasing the breeding bulbs, you rejuvenate the plants at the same time. Divide plants grown in pots in the fall and place the bulbs again in a container that is kept dark over the winter. The main bulb is planted outdoors.
hardy
Scilla species prove to be completely hardy. They do not require winter protection. In months with little snow and very cold temperatures, you can spread a layer of pine brushwood, bark mulch, leaves or straw on the bed. The material has an insulating effect and ensures that the earth does not freeze. In spring, the mulch layer is removed shortly before budding.
Pests
Occasionally, squills are attacked by leaflets. The nematodes nest in the leaf veins and leave behind glassy spots that later turn brown. Humid conditions encourage nematodes to spread. If the plant is lightly infected, cut off the affected leaves. If there is a severe pest infestation, you should remove the entire plant.
Fungal infestation
If the location is too wet, the bulbs will begin to rot. The soil often becomes waterlogged in winter, so that the plants no longer sprout the next spring. Under these conditions, fungal spores can spread, which further accelerates the rotting process. Preventive measures such as loosening the soil with sand are the most effective measures. If the bulbs have rotted, they should be removed and the substrate replaced.
Tip
The blue flowers look particularly beautiful among yellow star, wood anemones or winter irises. All you have to do is leave the plant to fend for itself. With a little patience you can enjoy a bright carpet of flowers that becomes increasingly beautiful.
Varieties
- Alba: Two-petaled squill with pure white flowers in March. Reaches heights of up to ten centimeters.
- Rosea: Two-petaled squill, blooms in March, soft pink with a light flower center. Up to ten centimeters high.
- Spring Beauty: Blue flowers with white markings, flowering time between March and April. Grows between 15 and 20 centimeters high.
