To propagate yellow fritillaria (Fritillaria pudica), you can propagate them by seed sowing or by dividing established clumps in late summer, separating and potting on small bulbils.
Here’s a more detailed breakdown:
1. Seed Sowing:
- Timing: Sow seeds in autumn under glass or in a cold frame.
- Germination: Seeds can take a year or more to germinate, so sow them thinly to avoid overcrowding seedlings.
- After Germination: Once germinated, grow seedlings on for two years before planting them out.
- Cold Frame: After their second growing season, divide up the small bulbs, planting 2-3 to an 8cm deep pot and grow them on for at least another year in light shade in the greenhouse before planting them out whilst dormant.
2. Division of Established Clumps:
- Timing: Dig up clusters of fritillaria in late summer or fall, after the stem has turned yellow and gone dormant.
- Separation: Separate the small bulbs (offsets or bulbils) from the mature ones.
- Replanting: Replant mature bulbs in the same location, and plant the immature bulbs in a new location at the same depth and spacing.
- Bulb Scales: You can also propagate by taking scales from the bulbs, dusting the mother bulbs with a fungicide, and replanting immediately.