How to plant scillas bifolia

Dating back to the late 1500s, scillas bifolia or two-leaf squills are lovely heirloom plants producing four to ten violet to gentian-blue star-shaped flowers above upright waxy leaves. Standing the test of time, these inexpensive and easy-to-grow bulbs are fantastic planted in the rockery or around deciduous shrubs at the edge of a garden border where they will create a striking light blue sea. Try mixing with erythroniums, muscaris, narcissi and tulips. Alternatively, grow in containers.

Plant around 10 cm deep in fertile, humus-rich, well-drained soil in dappled shade to full sun ⁠— allowing for around 75 to 100 bulbs per square meter. Feed every couple of weeks with high potash feed; if you garden organically, liquid seaweed is ideal as it is organic and comes from a sustainable source.

Always unpack on arrival and store in a cool place until ready to plant. Take care! Scillas can be harmful to cats and dogs.

Potential problems, pests and diseases:

Scillas do not usually suffer from any serious diseases or pest problems. However, they may be affected by viruses. These can cause a number of problems ranging from the appearance of deformed leaves and flowers to colour patterns and streaking. It is advisable to lift and destroy any affected plant at first sight.