How to Plant Anemone Bulbs

When to Plant Anemones

Anemones can be planted in autumn or spring depending on your zone and can be stored until you are able to plant. Make sure your bulbs do not get below 25 degrees or they could rot once they begin to thaw. 

  • Zones 2-7: Plant in Late Winter/Early Spring
  • Zones 8-12: Plant in Autumn

How to Plant Anemones

Before planting, soak your bulbs for a few hours in lukewarm water. This helps them develop strong roots.  For container planting, make sure to use good quality, well-draining soil.

Where to Plant Anemones

Choose well-draining soil with full sun exposure, and dig holes that allow you to plant the anemones 1-2 inches deep, and 1-2 inches apart. Don't worry about which side of the bulb needs to point toward the surface as regardless of how the bulbs are positioned they will still grow. If planting indoors, it is important to make sure there are adequate drainage holes in your containers; anemones bulbs will rot if they sit in waterlogged soil.

After planting, gently soak the soil. Roots will form in the autumn and in warmer zones, some foliage may also develop in the fall. Buds and flowers are produced in the spring.

Leave the foliage in place once blooming has ended for the season, be sure not to cut it off. The leaves will continue to gather sunlight and strengthen the bulbs for future seasons.

Leaves will yellow and die back as the plant goes dormant. Foliage may be removed at this point.