After the vibrant blooms of alliums have faded, there are a few options for what you can do with them. One option is to simply leave the flowers on the plant until they naturally fall apart. This can offer fantastic winter interest in the garden, as the dried seedheads can add texture and structure to your landscape.
If you prefer to have the allium seedheads indoors, you can pick them and dry them for use as a decoration in your house. To do this, wait until the flowers have fully faded and the seedheads have started to dry out. Cut the stems with a few inches of the seedheads attached and hang them upside down in a dry, well-ventilated area. You can use a string or twine to tie them together and hang them from a hook or clothesline. It’s important to allow them to fully dry before bringing them inside, as any remaining moisture can cause them to rot.
Once the allium seedheads are completely dry, you can use them in various ways to add interest to your home decor. They can be placed in a vase or arranged in a dried flower arrangement. You can also spray paint them in different colors to match your desired aesthetic. Additionally, allium seedheads can be used in wreaths or garlands, adding a unique touch to your holiday decorations.
In terms of the allium bulbs themselves, they can be left in the garden year after year. These bulbs are perennial, meaning they will continue to grow and bloom for multiple seasons without needing to be replanted. It’s a good idea to mark the location of your allium bulbs, as their foliage dies back after blooming and can be easily overlooked. This way, you can avoid accidentally damaging the bulbs while gardening or planting other flowers.
When it comes to maintenance, allium bulbs are relatively low-maintenance. They prefer well-draining soil and should be planted in a sunny spot in your garden. In terms of watering, they generally don’t require much additional water once established, as they are quite drought-tolerant. However, during prolonged periods of dry weather, it’s a good idea to give them a deep watering to ensure they have enough moisture to thrive.
Alliums offer not only stunning blooms during the growing season but also provide winter interest with their dried seedheads. Whether you choose to leave them on the plant or bring them indoors for decoration, alliums can add beauty and texture to your garden and home. By leaving the bulbs in the ground and providing them with proper care, you can enjoy these charming flowers year after year.
