Flowers that sprout from bulbs are only “present” above ground for part of the year. Then significant growth can be seen. It is obvious to every gardener that water is necessary for this. But does the watering can really have to be moved?
Do flower bulbs need to be watered?
Flower bulbs need sufficient water during their flowering and growth phase. However, native species are adapted to natural rainfall and usually do not require additional irrigation unless drought conditions prevail. Exotic species, on the other hand, should be watered according to their specific needs, avoiding standing moisture.
Native species
Flower bulbs, which originate in our latitudes, fit harmoniously into nature. This also means getting by with the given living conditions without further support.
Native species bloom early in the year when the weather is neither hot nor overly dry. Rain provides their water supply. Only if this does not happen for a long time and the soil dries out too much should flower bulbs be watered extra.
Note:Flower bulbs in the balcony box and flower bulbs in the apartment draw from limited water reserves and therefore need to be watered more often.
“Immigrant” flower bulbs
The exotics in the onion family only come into the ground after frost, when the days generally become sunnier and warmer. Each species has its own ideas about successful irrigation. That's why you should find out more about the type used.
Tip
After planting the flower bulbs, the soil should remain consistently moist. To prevent drying out, a layer of mulch (€13.00 on Amazon) should be spread over it.
Water requirements during the flowering phase
As the flowers develop, the water requirement increases slightly. In principle, this applies to all types of flower bulbs.
- the larger the flower heads, the higher the water requirement
- Standing wet should be avoided
- otherwise the onions will rot
