Comment from
David Crepaz-Keay
Followed instructions last year and now have dozens of shoots in my seed trays. Looking forward to potting up the bulbs...
Question from
Gillian Linton
When is the best time to plant my snake's-head fritillary bulbs?
Gillian Linton
Tip from
CD
Here is what Carol Klien says about sewing the seeds of Fritllais Meleagris in June/July. Taken from www.telegraph.co.uk/gardening/3312333/Gardening-email.html
It is during late June and early July that fritillaries disperse their seed. The fat seed capsules split into sections from the top, exposing layers of neatly stacked, wafer-thin seeds which are blown hither and thither on windy days. Members of the lily family all disperse their seed in this way and will sow themselves randomly wherever they land.
# If you want to produce your own Fritillaria meleagris bulbs, seize the opportunity now, says Carol Klein, by preparing a seed tray full to the brim with any good seed compost. Since seedlings may remain in their tray for a year it is preferable to use loam-based compost which will provide some sustenance. Select seed heads which are still intact or have just started to burst. Put a paper bag over the top to catch the seed. As the capsule starts to split, gently tap it over the surface of the tray making sure the seed is evenly distributed. Cover the entire surface with a layer of sharp grit, firm down and soak from underneath by standing the seed tray in a bowl of water. Drain thoroughly and stand the tray outside, out of direct sunlight.
Later this summer, the first single leaves will appear. As with all monocotyledons, it is preferable to leave the seedlings in situ rather than prick them out straightaway. The seed leaves will die back during the winter and new leaves will emerge next spring. Later, clumps of the tiny bulbs which will have been formed can be potted up together and planted out the following autumn.
"I am so proud to be a member of your very comprehensive and well thought through website!"
