To propagate Snake’s Head Fritillaria (Fritillaria meleagris), you can propagate by seed, sowing in autumn under glass and allowing seedlings to grow for a couple of years before planting out, or by dividing established clumps in late summer/early fall, separating and potting on small bulbils.
Here’s a more detailed breakdown:
1. Propagation by Seed:
- Timing: Sow seeds in autumn (September-October) in trays of compost.
- Stratification: Snake’s head fritillary seeds are cold germinators, meaning they need a period of cold to stimulate germination. Store seeds in a warm place (18-20°C) for two weeks, then between 0 and 5°C for 4-6 weeks before sowing.
- Sowing: Sow seeds in a cold frame or under glass, keeping the soil moist.
- Growing on: Once germinated, grow seedlings on for two years before planting out in their permanent locations.
- Note: Seedlings can take several years to reach flowering size.
2. Propagation by Division:
- Timing: Divide established clumps in late summer or early fall, after flowering.
- Method: Carefully lift the entire clump from the ground and gently break it apart, ensuring each section has some growing buds or “eyes”.
- Replanting: Replant the divided sections in the same location or a new location, ensuring they are planted at the same depth and spacing as the original bulbs.
3. General Tips for Growing Snake’s Head Fritillaries:
- Soil: They prefer fertile, humus-rich, well-drained soil.
- Sunlight: Plant in partial shade or dappled shade.
- Water: They need cool, moist summers.
- Bulbs: Plant bulbs at four times their own depth, ideally on their sides to prevent waterlogging.
- Aftercare: Allow the foliage to yellow completely after flowering before cutting back the flower stalks.
- Pests and Diseases: Generally disease-free, but may be susceptible to slugs and lily beetle.
- Naturalizing: Snake’s head fritillaries can spread by self-seeding in the right conditions.