They delighted us with the color of their flowers or a wonderful scent. Now we can't let them down. When flower bulbs wilt, it's time to think about next season. This is how we support them in gathering strength.
How should flower bulbs be treated after flowering?
After flowering, flower bulbs should not be cut off and their leaves should be allowed to wilt in order to store nutrients in the bulbs. Frost-sensitive varieties must be dug up and stored in a cool, dark and airy place. Hardy varieties can be left outdoors.
Wilting leaves
When the flower bulbs finish blooming, all their splendor disappears. The desire quickly arises to simply cut off the unadorned remains. But you shouldn't do that! At least not if the onions are supposed to bloom the following year.
The leaves contain nutrients that are gradually extracted and stored in the onion. They form the reserve of strength for the next sprouting.
Dig up flower bulbs
As soon as the foliage and flower stalks have completely died, you can dig up the flower bulbs.
frost-sensitive flower bulb varieties
need to be dug up
- hardy varieties can be dug up
- but you can also stay outside
Store flower bulbs
The excavated flower bulbs must overwinter in an airy, cool and dark place until spring. Imperfect specimens must be sorted out first.
Tip
If the weather permits, let the flower bulbs dry outside. Otherwise, rot can spread in the winter quarters.
