All About Alliums: A Guide for Beginners
Introduction
Alliums are beautiful flowering plants that are easy to grow and add a touch of elegance to any garden. They are also known as ornamental onions and come in a variety of shapes, sizes, and colors.
How to Grow Alliums
To grow alliums, simply plant the bulbs in the fall in well-drained soil. They prefer full sun but can also tolerate partial shade. Water them regularly, especially during dry spells.
Caring for Alliums
Alliums are relatively low-maintenance plants. Once they are established, they will only need occasional watering and fertilizing. You may need to stake taller varieties to prevent them from falling over.
Alliums Pests and Problems
Alliums are generally pest-free and disease-resistant. However, they can be susceptible to white rot, a fungal disease that can cause the bulbs to rot. To prevent white rot, plant alliums in well-drained soil and avoid overwatering.
Buying Alliums
Alliums are available for purchase at most garden centers and online retailers. When buying alliums, look for firm bulbs with no signs of mold or disease.
Popular Allium Varieties
There are many different varieties of alliums, each with its own unique characteristics. Some popular varieties include:
- Purple Sensation: This variety produces large, purple flowers that bloom in late spring.
- Millenium: This variety produces large, pink-purple flowers that bloom in mid to late summer.
- Red Mohican: This variety produces unusual, maroon-red flowers that resemble a mohican.
- Globemaster: This variety produces huge, purple flowers that can reach up to 15cm in diameter.
Conclusion
Alliums are a beautiful and easy-to-grow addition to any garden. With a little care, they will thrive for years to come.
