Clematis and Ranunculus: Bloom More Than Once

Spring might seem like a one-and-done season for many gardeners when it comes to colorful blooms. However, some varieties like clematis and ranunculus surpass this notion and provide you with a second chance at vibrant and joyful colors. Let’s explore the varieties that will produce a second set of blooms later in the season, focusing on the double flowering types and the perennial nature of ranunculus.

Clematis: A Double Flowering Marvel

Clematis is a diverse genus of climbing plants that produces a plethora of blooms, starting from spring through to autumn. While many varieties are known for their magnificent first wave of flowers, some types can produce a second set of flowers later in the season. These double or fuller blooms often bear a resemblance to the first flush but with reduced complexity. Spring blossoms can range from delicate singles to lavish doubles, promising more beauty and all-season interest in your garden.

Those late-season blooms that clematis can produce are not just a bonus; they are a testament to the plant's resilience and adaptability. To ensure these later blooms, it's crucial to provide proper care, including adequate sunlight, regular watering, and fertilization. Deadheading the spent blooms can also encourage further flowering.

Ranunculus: Perennials for Lasting Color

Ranunculus is a genus of plants that includes about 400 species of flowering plants, commonly known for their buttercup-like flowers. Unlike the one-time bloom of many annuals, ranunculus is a perennial. This means that as long as the growing conditions remain optimal, these beauties will return year after year, bringing with them a cascade of stunning blooms and an array of colors.

However, not all ranunculus are destined for your garden beds. If you live in a particularly cold or hot climate, you should consider treating ranunculus as a bulb plant and following the simple steps to dig up and store the bulbs. Here’s how:

Cool Climate: Wait until the first frost has blackened the foliage. Once the foliage has turned brown and died back, gently dig up the bulbs with a trowel. Shake off excess dirt, trim away the dead foliage, and store the bulbs in a cool, dry, and dark place.

Hot Climate: Similar to the cool climate, but the timing is more crucial. The first frost will likely come in autumn, allowing you to harvest the bulbs before the hot season sets in. After harvesting, the bulbs should be stored in a mesh bag in a cool, dark place like a basement or a cool garage.

Conclusion

Both clematis and ranunculus offer gardeners the opportunity to enjoy an extended bloom season beyond the initial flush of spring. By choosing the right varieties and providing them with the necessary care, you can have a garden that continues to impress from late spring through early fall. Look for double flowering clematis and consider ranunculus as a perennial for lasting beauty and enjoyment in your outdoor space.