How to plant ranunculus asiaticus

Why Ranunculus Are the Jewels of My Spring Garden

I’m completely smitten with Ranunculus asiaticus. There’s just something about those layer upon layer of silky petals that feels so luxurious. Whether in soft pastels or bold jewel tones, these Persian buttercups steal the show every spring.

The most successful way to grow them is by planting in autumn so they have time to settle in and build strong roots over winter. Come spring, they burst into bloom with exquisite, rose-like flowers that look straight out of a florist’s bouquet. And they’re not just pretty — they’re strong, sturdy, whether you’re planting in borders or containers.

It’s taken me a couple of years to get these right so don’t be disappointed if you struggle the first year. There’s nothing more disappointing than when all your efforts get wiped out by some slugs or damp soil! Otherwise they are pretty easy to grow.

How I Plant and Care for My Ranunculus (Autumn Edition)

Ranunculus may look fancy, but trust me, they’re beginner-friendly — especially if you give them a head start in autumn. Here’s how I do it:

Prepping the Tubers

Before planting, I pre-soak the tubers in lukewarm water for 1–3 hours. They look like little claws — and they should be planted claw-side down.

Location & Soil

I plant them in fertile, well-drained soil (moist, but not soggy — they hate sitting in wet). Using containers is recommended if you have space, I make sure there’s plenty of drainage and good compost. Planted in the ground can be harder to control pests and the weather. 

Spacing & Depth

• Depth: Around 8 cm deep

• Spacing: Approx. 10 cm apart or 3 tubers per litre pot

• Planting Density: About 50–75 tubers per square metre for a lush display

Aftercare & Feeding

• I feed every couple of weeks with a high-potash fertiliser to encourage blooming. Liquid seaweed is my go-to because it’s organic and sustainable.

• After flowering, I let the foliage die back naturally to feed the tubers for next season.

How I Overwinter My Ranunculus

Ranunculus are hardy-ish, but they do appreciate some extra love in winter — especially in cooler parts of the UK.

• In the ground: I cover them with a thick mulch (straw, compost, or leaf mould) to protect from hard frosts.

• In pots: I move them to a sheltered, frost-free spot — like an unheated greenhouse, cold frame, or porch.

• Wet winters: Drainage is key. I sometimes raise containers slightly to prevent waterlogging.

If you give them this little bit of care, they’ll reward you with some of the most florist-worthy blooms you’ve ever seen — right from your own garden.

Companion Planting Ideas

Ranunculus look absolutely dreamy paired with:

• Alchemillas for soft, lime-green contrast

• Anemones for layered spring texture

• Lavender or tulbaghia for scent and structure

• Scabiosas for whimsical, airy charm

Pests & Problems To Watch Out For

Like most plants, ranunculus have their occasional challenges:

• Aphids: Can spread viruses and suck sap.

• Slugs and snails: Love the new growth. I use copper tape on my pots and check borders after rain.

• Powdery mildew: Caused by poor air flow or too much shade. I snip off any infected leaves and disinfect my scissors between cuts.

Pet safety tip: Ranunculus tubers can be toxic to cats, dogs, and horses, so I always keep them away from pets and paddocks.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: When should I plant Ranunculus in the UK?
A: Autumn is ideal! This gives them time to establish roots and bloom earlier in spring.

Q: Do I need to dig them up after flowering?
A: Not necessarily. In milder areas, just mulch over winter. In colder or wetter spots, it’s safer to lift and store them.

Q: Can I grow Ranunculus in pots?
A: Absolutely — they love containers. Just make sure there’s good drainage and plenty of sunlight.

Q: Do I need to soak Ranunculus tubers before planting?
A: No, the moisture from the soil will be enough but soaking them in tepid water for 1–3 hours helps them rehydrate and kickstart growth.

Q: Are Ranunculus good as cut flowers?
A: They’re fantastic cut flowers — and the more you cut, the more they bloom!

If you love flowers that feel like they’ve stepped out of a bouquet and into your garden, Ranunculus are a must. With just a little planning in autumn, you’ll be rewarded with layers of colour, elegance, and joy when spring rolls around.