Since there are around 800 different varieties of ornamental onions, it quickly becomes clear that not all of them love the same locations or can be planted in the same way. However, most varieties have certain similarities.

Ornamental onions like sunny locations

The right location for ornamental onions

Almost all types of ornamental onions prefer a very sunny location. Wild garlic, which blooms very early in the year, likes a little shade. In nature you can often find it in sparse forests. It can be recognized by its smell reminiscent of garlic. The situation is similar with the golden leek, which also grows well in partial shade.

If your ornamental onion feels comfortable in its location, this has a positive effect on its willingness to bloom. In addition, this makes maintenance easier. If the soil is too dry, they will need to be watered more frequently. On the other hand, if waterlogged, the onions start to rot easily.

What should the soil be like?

In general, the ornamental onion prefers loose, well-drained, but rather dry soil. Again, wild garlic and golden leeks are an exception here, they like it slightly moist. However, all varieties of ornamental onions do not tolerate waterlogging well. Loosen up a little bit of gravel or sand in the planting hole if the soil is too firm.

How deep do I have to plant ornamental onions?

How deep you plant your ornamental onions depends on the size of the bulb. The bulbs should always be planted three times as deep in the ground as they are high. But you don't have to measure this to the centimeter, a good sense of proportion is enough. Accordingly, giant leeks are planted about 20 centimeters deep, but wild garlic is only planted slightly below the surface.

When is the ideal time to plant ornamental onions?

As a rule, ornamental onions are planted in autumn, then they have enough time to grow well before winter. The sooner you plant it in the ground, the sooner it will start sprouting next year. If late spring frosts are often to be expected where you live, then planting a little later is recommended.

Can I combine ornamental onions with other plants?

Ornamental onions are ideal for a combination with other plants. A leek that stays small fits very well in a rock garden, medium-sized to large varieties provide interesting contrasts in perennial beds. With a combination, make sure that the companion plants have similar location and care conditions.

The essentials in brief:

  • sunny location, exception: wild garlic and golden garlic
  • loose, well-drained soil
  • rather dry, but slightly damp possible
  • Planting depth: triple bulb height
  • ideal combination partner for rockeries and perennial beds

tips

Plant your ornamental onions in combination with other plants and create interesting contrasts in your garden.

Category:

Indoor plants