Can you grow Fritillaria imperialis from seed?
Fritillaria seed ripens in mid to late summer and is best sown as soon as ripe or soon after in autumn. While older seed may still be viable it develops germination inhibitors that can make late sowings germinate erratically. Fritillaries can be propagated by seed. Sow in autumn under glass. Once germinated, grow seedlings on for two years before planting out. Alternatively, divide established clumps of Fritillaria imperialis in late-summer by splitting off and potting on the small bulbils around the edge of the bulb.Fritillaria Imperialis will produce seed, but it takes a long time, several years, to mature into a bulb, which means it may be better to dead head to divert the plant’s energy into next year’s bulb.Fritiallaria Imperialis bulbs will multiply during the first or second year of planting. Ideally, the best time to lift and check your bulbs for dividing is during the months of August and September. Once, you have divided your bulbs, they will all need replanting.How to care for Fritillaria imperialis Rubra: Plant bulbs (ideally on their sides) 20cm deep from September to November in fertile, well-drained soil, taking care not to damage the fragile bulbs.
Do fritillarias self seed?
Fritillaries are best grown from bulbs, although some, such as the snakeshead fritillary will seed themselves about readily. The vast majority of fritillarias grow quite happily in pots, as long as they are kept in a greenhouse”, shares Dr Robert Wallis from The Fritillaria Group.
How to germinate Fritillaria seeds?
Snake’s head Fritillary seeds should be sown in trays of compost in autumn. The trays should be left outside in a cold frame or covered with glass, and kept moist. After germinating, the seedlings can be pricked out and grown on and raised in pots. Plant the bulbs about 3/4 times their own depth in the Autumn. If you do not dead head Snake’s Head Fritillary will self seed if the growing conditions are suitable.