Timing is everything when it comes to growing the most beautiful buttercups; here’s when to plant ranunculus in a garden and containers!
If you want to add buttercups to your garden, you must know the right time to grow them. Why? Well, doing it too early or late will lead to a frail plant or, in worst-case scenarios–a dead one! Why waste your efforts when you can plant ranunculus at the right time for better results? We’ve got you covered here!
When to Plant Ranunculus in Gardens and Containers
Ranunculus thrives in cool climates with an average temperature between 40 and 60 F (4 and 15 C) and commonly grows in USDA zones 8-11. It can be grown as an annual in colder places down to USDA zone 4 or with proper winter protection.
Why are we sharing this? Because the optimal planting time depends on the location and your USDA zone.
1. Planting Ranunculus in Containers
Growing ranunculus in pots is much easier since indoor environmental conditions can be easily manipulated. It’s an excellent choice for colder regions where outdoor temperatures may be too harsh.
- Cold Climates (USDA Zones 7 and below): The ideal time to start Ranunculus corms outdoors is in late winter or early spring after the danger of frost has passed. You can plant Ranunculus indoors as early as 12 weeks before the average last frost date for earlier flowers.
- Moderate to Warm Climates (USDA Zones 8-11): You can start ranunculus in these zones where temperatures do not drop below 10 F (-12 C). The perfect time to plant corms outdoors is in the fall.
Note: Depending on the variety and weather conditions, it will take up to 90 days from planting to blooming.
You only need an 8-inch-wide pot filled with a well-draining, slightly acidic potting mix—for a pot of this size, go with one corm per pot.
Before planting the corms, soak them in water for a few hours so they expand significantly larger size. Then, sow them around 3-4 inches deep, ensuring the pointed side faces downwards. That’s it!
But what about outdoor pots? Here’s the best time for that!
In cold climates (Zones 3-6), start ranunculus indoors in late winter to early spring and move them outside after the last frost has passed and the weather is warmer in spring. In moderate zones (7-8), plant them in early or mid-fall so they can develop better roots before blooming in spring.
People living in warmer zones (9-10) should plant in mid or late fall for cool-season growth, while those in hot climates (Zone 11) should grow in late fall to early winter, keeping pots in shaded areas to prevent overheating.
2. When to Plant Ranunculus in a Garden
You will have to tweak the planting timing based on your specific climate. If your area experiences relatively warmer summers, you must sow in late November or early December. In moderate regions, starting mid-fall would work well.
You can also start your plant indoors, and when the frost clears, transplant them to their desired locations.
Loosen up the soil before planting the corms. A dense or clogged growing medium will make it hard for the plant to sprout.
When growing ranunculus indoors, soak the corms in lukewarm water for at least an hour before planting. If you are growing multiple plants together, space them out at least by 3-6 inches to avoid root competition.
Pro Tip: If you live in chilly areas, try mulching the soil and fertilizing your plant every month or so during its active growth period–it’ll grow better!
Best Window to Plant Ranunculus
Ranunculus thrive in cool weather, making fall planting ideal for warmer zones (8-11), where they can establish roots over winter for spring blooms. But we suggest you do it in spring. Here’s why.
Spring planting is essential for USDA zones 4-7. These zones experience colder winters with a higher risk of late frost. Planting in spring, after the danger of hard frost has passed, ensures the ranunculus are not damaged by freezing temperatures. You can also do it a bit later in the spring season.
Plus, planting in spring is possible even in warmer zones (8-11). It is perfect if you missed the fall planting window or want to extend your blooming season.
Just be mindful that the plants may not have as long to establish before the summer heat arrives, so give them the proper care and protect them from intense sun in summer afternoons.
Common Mistakes While Planting Ranunculus
- Neglecting the pre-soak: Ranunculus corms are very dry when you purchase them. Skipping the pre-soak means they’ll struggle to rehydrate, leading to poor growth or even rot. Soaking them for 3-4 hours in room temperature water is essential to wake them up and prepare them for planting.
- Once done, pre-sprout them in damp peat moss or vermiculite for a spring head start if you live in a cool climate!
- Incorrect planting orientation: It is very important to take the time to observe and plant the corms correctly. Do it with the “claws” pointing downwards. Planting them upside down will significantly hinder their growth.
- Poor soil drainage: Ranunculus are highly susceptible to root rot. Planting them in heavy, waterlogged soil is a death sentence. Ensure your soil is well-draining by amending it with compost or other organic matter. Try planting in raised beds or containers if you have heavy clay soil.
Well, what are you waiting for? It’s time to plant beautiful buttercups in your garden so they can quickly grow and spread their beauty!
