Scilla Growing Guide

Scilla siberica

Scilla

Crop Rotation Group

Miscellaneous ●

Soil

Average garden soil with excellent drainage.

Position

Full sun to partial shade in late winter, partial shade in summer.

Frost tolerant

Excellent. Most scilla are hardy to -32C (-25F).

Feeding

Topdress with rich compost in spring, when new growth appears.

Companions

Scilla is one of the best little bulbs to naturalise in grass beneath deciduous trees. Scatter them in small groups along a woodland edge. Scillas combine well with crocuses and early-blooming daffodils.

Spacing

Single Plants: 10cm (3") each way (minimum)
Rows: 10cm (3") with 10cm (3") row gap (minimum)

Sow and Plant

Set out dormant bulbs from late summer to early winter, planting them 10cm (4in) deep. Spacing can be as close as 5cm (2in) between scilla bulbs, which look best when planted in groups of seven or more.
Our Garden Planner can produce a personalised calendar of when to sow, plant and harvest for your area.

Notes

Like crocuses, scilla are considered harbingers of spring. Expect scilla to spread when planted in a hospitable spot.

Harvesting

Seeds can be gathered and re-sown in early summer. Established clumps can be dug and moved in the autumn, but are best left undisturbed.

Troubleshooting

Scilla needs a period of winter chilling, and will not persist long in warmer areas.

Planting and Harvesting Calendar

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Pests which Affect Scilla