How to Grow Allium Bulbs

(Great for  Bees🐝)

Alliums are part of the onion family so the bulbs have an onion like smell, but don't eat them. They are an architectural dream and a stalwart of the many garden shows especially the Chelsea Flower Show, appearing in garden designs every year. The most familiar colour is purple but the more unusual varieties are available in white, blue and light pink. As well as being a stunning addition to any garden they are a magnet for bees so great for wildlife gardens, and make a great cut flower.  Allium bulbs range in size from that of a small marble up to the size of a tennis ball. The smaller varieties grow a few inches tall up to those that can reach 3 feet or more. The foliage can be unattractive and gets scruffy so is often removed for flower shows. If you don't want to see the foliage in your garden plant your Alliums amongst other plants so that the foliage is hidden. After flowering you can leave the seed heads on the plant as they provide structure and form in the garden and look great covered in frost. 

When should I buy? Purchase bulbs in September and October