To plant Allium hollandicum ‘Purple Sensation’ bulbs, you will need to follow a few simple steps. First and foremost, it is important to choose a suitable location for these bulbs. They thrive in full sun, so find a spot in your garden that receives at least six hours of direct sunlight each day.
Next, prepare the soil. Allium bulbs prefer fertile, well-drained soil. If your soil is heavy or clay-like, consider adding organic matter such as compost or well-rotted manure to improve drainage and fertility. This will help the bulbs establish and grow successfully.
Now it’s time to dig the planting holes. Allium bulbs should be planted up to three times their diameter deep. This means that if a bulb is one inch in diameter, the planting hole should be around three inches deep. Space the bulbs about six inches apart to allow for adequate growth and airflow.
When placing the bulbs in the holes, make sure the pointed end is facing upwards. This is where the foliage will emerge from. If you’re unsure, bulbs usually have some remnants of roots at the base, which can serve as a guide for the correct orientation.
After placing the bulbs in the holes, gently backfill with soil, taking care not to damage the bulbs. Lightly firm the soil around the bulbs to eliminate any air pockets. Water the area thoroughly to ensure good soil-to-bulb contact and to help with the initial establishment.
Allium ‘Purple Sensation’ is not fully hardy, especially in colder regions. If you live in an area with harsh winters, it is recommended to mulch the bulbs in late autumn to provide some insulation. This can be done by applying a layer of organic mulch, such as straw or shredded leaves, around the plants. Mulching will help protect the bulbs from freezing temperatures and frost heaving.
Alternatively, if you have limited garden space or want to enjoy the Allium ‘Purple Sensation’ bulbs in a different setting, you can plant them in pots. Use well-draining potting soil and follow the same planting depth and spacing guidelines as mentioned earlier. In autumn, before the first frost, move the pots to a frost-free area, such as a garage or basement, where the bulbs can go dormant until spring.
As with any plant, it is important to monitor the moisture levels and provide adequate water during periods of dry weather. However, be cautious not to overwater, as excessive moisture can lead to bulb rot.
In terms of care, Allium ‘Purple Sensation’ is relatively low-maintenance. Once the foliage starts to die back after flowering, you can remove it, but it’s best to allow it to wither naturally. This allows the bulbs to store energy for the following year’s growth.
Planting Allium hollandicum ‘Purple Sensation’ bulbs involves choosing a sunny location, preparing the soil, planting the bulbs at the appropriate depth and spacing, mulching in colder regions, and providing adequate water. By following these steps and providing proper care, you can enjoy the beautiful purple flowers of ‘Purple Sensation’ in your garden or containers.
