Our gardens will soon go into hibernation and you can take a short break from gardening until the new season begins. But so that spring shows its flowers as early as possible, you should plant some early bloomers in the garden in late autumn. In addition to the popular snowdrops and crocuses, the winter aconites should not be missing. The yellow early bloomers are a real enrichment for the garden in spring and can add wonderful color accents. But when should you plant winter aconites - right now in autumn or rather at the beginning of spring? We have the answer.
The winter aconite: yellow early bloomer with great coverage
The small winter aconite (Eranthis hyemalis) is a spring bloomer from the buttercup family (Ranunculaceae). It is native to the forests of Western Europe, but is also widespread elsewhere. You can often see the winter aconite peeking through the snow in the first days of spring and blooming before the crocuses. Characteristic of the winter aconite are its golden yellow, buttercup-like flowers and the leaves that grow directly under the flower head. The small plant grows up to 15 cm high and can therefore form a beautiful carpet of flowers. However, you should note that the plant is poisonous to humans and animals.
There is actually no clear answer to this question, because both autumn and spring are suitable for planting winter aconites. It depends on which method of planting you choose.
- In autumn the tubers of the winter aconite are planted in the ground.They are suitable for thisthe months of September and Octoberbest, but in mild weather (like this year)November is also a good timeas a favorable planting time.
- Plant flowering winter aconites directly in early spring.For this to happen, the ground must be frost-free, so choose one of the first warm days in February or March. This method of planting works better.
Planting the winter aconite tubers: instructions and tips
Like most other spring flowers, such as crocuses, tulips and daffodils, these pretty plants are grown from bulbs rather than bulbs. The tubers store nutrients for the plant so that the winter aconite can overwinter well and survive harsh winters.
You should plant the winter aconite tubers about 10 centimeters apart and 5 to 7 centimeters deep to protect them from winter temperatures. Like most other spring onions, you should plant winter aconite bulbs in the fall to prepare them for the next growing season.
This is how you properly care for the early bloomer
Winter aconite thrives when neglected and requires little to no care after planting. It is virtually pest and disease free, resistant to wildlife and tolerates varying lighting conditions. Once established, the winter aconite can self-sow and naturalize over time, forming beautiful carpets of flowers.
Licht:Winter aconite tolerates a variety of lighting conditions, from partial shade to full sun. However, it grows most vigorously in a location that receives at least five to six hours of direct sunlight daily.
Boden:This hardy plant thrives in most soil types, but grows best in alkaline soils. The winter aconite is native to forests with uniformly moist, well-drained soils with a high proportion of organic matter. Planting in moderately fertile, humus-rich soil helps mimic the plant's natural habitat. A regular supply of humus is therefore necessary, for example through fallen leaves or mature compost.
Pour:Winter aconites need consistent moisture all year round. During particularly hot, dry periods, plants may need additional watering. However, as long as it is planted in suitable soil, winter aconite does not require regular watering in most cases.
Temperature and humidity:The flowers of the winter aconite are sensitive to temperature fluctuations. They bloom best in warm, sunny weather and close up in cold, overcast weather. However, the early bloomer requires warm spring and summer weather to sprout and bloom. The plant tolerates a certain level of humidity.
Fertilize:Winter aconites do not need regular fertilization. The best way to promote healthy growth is to amend the soil with compost every spring to provide plants with additional nutrients on an annual basis.
