To propagate a Crown Imperial (Fritillaria imperialis), the most reliable method is to divide the bulb offsets that grow around the parent bulb in late summer after the foliage has died back, carefully separating and replanting the smaller bulbs individually; you can also try propagating from seed, but this process takes longer and may require cold stratification for germination, meaning the seeds need a period of cold to sprout properly.
Key points about propagating Crown Imperial:
Best time to divide: Late summer after the foliage has yellowed and died back.
Method: Gently dig up the mature bulb, carefully separate the smaller offset bulbs from the main bulb, and replant them individually.
Seed propagation: Sow seeds in autumn, and expect them to take several years to flower.
Important considerations:
Handle the bulbs carefully to avoid damage.
Smaller offsets may need to be potted up and grown on for a year before planting in the garden. When planting new bulbs, ensure they are positioned with the pointed end facing upwards.