
How To Grow Allium Bulbs
Allium is a reliable and easy-to-grow perennial, hardy in most regions of the U.S. (generally in zones 3-8).
HISTORY
The globe allium is an inedible member of the onion family, prized for its large, ornamental flower heads. Native to Central Asia, these flowering perennial bulbs have long been considered a garden staple, as they are deer resistant and very long lasting in the garden.
USES
- Ornamental and cut flower arrangements


- Plant bulbs in fall for a stunning spring and summer display. Plant in loose, average-quality, well-draining soil, as alliums will rot if left over winter in soggy soil.
- Planting depth ranges by variety; it is best to plant bulbs two to three times as deep as their diameter.
- Spacing will also vary by variety; small bulbs can be planted 3 to 4 inches apart, while large bulbs should be no fewer than 8 inches apart.


- Plants prefer full sun, but they will tolerate light shade.
PESTS/SPECIAL CONSIDERATIONS
- Alliums are resistant to most vermin and other critters thanks to their potent onion flavor. The bulbs will rot if left in soggy soil over the winter, so well-draining soil is essential.


- After the flower heads have dried, you can cut them and bring them indoors for floral arrangements or allow them to remain on the plants.
- Do not cut back the foliage after the plants have bloomed; the bulbs will re-absorb nutrients and use them to store food for the winter dormancy period. The bulbs will go dormant, and blooms will reappear the following spring.
- Globe alliums can live several years, but they will not aggressively spread.

