Do Gayfeather bulbs bloom the same year as planting? : Grows on You

Lanarkshire, United Kingdom

Do Gayfeather bulbs bloom the same year as planting? A novice gardener, I bought some out the pound shop yesterday. Instructions say plant Jan-May, blooms Jul-Aug. I'd be well pleased but surprised if they did, in fact, from the pound shop I'd be pleased if they grew at all. Also bought Echinacea Purpurea which came out the pack looking like hairy sticks - are the hairs the roots? and how do I plant these?

On plant Liatris

5 Jun, 2010

Answers

Bamboo

Gayfeather is usually the common name for Liatris spicata, and they're not bulbs - you probably have roots there. They may or may not bloom this year, but if they grow, will definitely bloom next year. Plant both roots (each plant) with the fibrous, rooty part downwards, and in such a manner that the tops are slightly under the soil too. Best in pots to start with, then you can keep them watered more easily, and easier to see if they'll actually grow or not. Time to buy plants in the pound shops is really March/April - the ones you've bought will have been in there since then.

5 Jun, 2010

Silverbell

Thanks, bamboo. I'll do that and see what happens.

6 Jun, 2010

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