How to Plant Ranunculus Corms (Australia)

Plant ranunculus corms 5–7 cm deep, claws facing down, in free-draining soil and full sun. Space 10–15 cm apart in beds (8–10 cm in pots). Soak corms 3–4 hours before planting; presprouting speeds emergence.

Best window: Cool/Southern (VIC, TAS, SA, S NSW) — April–June; Warm/Temperate (coastal NSW, WA, SE QLD) — March–May.
Soil: Free-draining, rich, slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–6.8). Open clay with coarse compost + sharp sand.
Water: Lightly after planting, then keep just moist until shoots appear (2–3 weeks).
Do not fertilise at planting: Begin feeding only after visible growth.

First feed cue: When shoots reach 2–3 cm, start half-strength feeding with CompleteGrow All Purpose Liquid (NPK 20-20-20 + micronutrients). Switch to full strength every 10–14 days through active growth and bloom.

The two biggest success factors are cool, well-drained soil and consistent moisture without waterlogging. Good drainage prevents rot and ensures strong stems and abundant buds.

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Step-by-Step: Beds, Pots & Presprouting

1) Pre-soak & optional presprout

Soak 3–4 hours: Room-temperature water; change once. Do not exceed 6 hours (rot risk).
Presprout (faster, more even): Set soaked corms claw-down in a shallow tray of slightly damp vermiculite/perlite. Hold 7–10 days at ~10–15 °C with airflow until nubs form; plant promptly. Avoid damp fridges/produce drawers (too humid/ethylene exposure).

2) Soil prep & bed layout

Choose full sun (6+ hrs). Loosen 30–40 cm deep.
Blend in mature compost for structure; add coarse material (pine bark fines, grit) for drainage.
Target pH 6.0–6.8. In alkaline soils, rely on liquid feeds later rather than adding lime.

3) Planting depth, spacing & orientation

Depth: 5–7 cm (slightly deeper in sandy soils).
Orientation: Claws down; smooth side up.
Spacing: Beds 10–15 cm; pots 8–10 cm for a full display.

4) Watering & early care

Water lightly after planting to settle soil. Keep just moist until sprouts appear (2–3 weeks).
Apply a thin, airy mulch (kept off crowns) to stabilise moisture.
In heavy rain, use temporary hoops + cover to prevent waterlogging; ventilate to avoid humidity build-up.

5) Containers (compact, reliable blooms)

Pot size: 25–30 cm deep minimum with generous drainage holes.
Mix: Premium, free-draining potting mix with coarse structure; avoid waterlogged media.
Watering rhythm: Allow the top 2–3 cm to dry slightly, then water thoroughly; containers need more frequent checks than beds.

Common mistakes to avoid

Over-soaking corms beyond 6 hours (rot risk).
Fertilising at planting (can burn or invite rot; wait for shoots).
Planting too deep or upside-down (delays or prevents emergence).
Heavy mulch over crowns (holds moisture, promotes rot).
Saturated beds after big rain events (use raised beds or covers in wet winters).

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Planting FAQ (Australia)

How deep do I plant ranunculus corms?

Plant 5–7 cm deep. Go a little deeper in very sandy soils; keep to 5 cm in heavier soils to speed emergence.

Which way up—what are the “claws”?

The clawed, pointy side is the base—plant it facing down. The smooth side faces up toward the surface.

How long do I soak corms?

Soak for 3–4 hours in room-temperature water, changing once. Longer soaks increase rot risk.

Presprout or plant straight in?

Both work. Presprouting evens emergence and shaves 1–2 weeks off—use a cool, airy spot (10–15 °C), not a damp fridge drawer.

Can I plant in spring?

You can, but warm soils shorten the display. If trying spring, presprout and give light afternoon shade to extend bloom.

Do I fertilise at planting?

No. Begin feeding when shoots reach 2–3 cm with CompleteGrow All Purpose Liquid 20-20-20 at half strength; move to full strength every 10–14 days.

Why didn’t my corms sprout?

Common reasons: planted upside-down, waterlogged soil, over-soaked corms, or stale stock. Dig a test corm—if mushy, discard; if firm, give another 1–2 weeks.

Can I grow ranunculus in pots successfully?

Yes—containers are excellent for cool-season colour. Use free-draining mix, close spacing (8–10 cm), and consistent moisture. Feed more frequently than beds.