Growing Scilla (Scilla siberica): A Complete Guide to Planting, Care, and Maintenance

Scilla (Scilla siberica), also known as Siberian squill, is a hardy, low-maintenance bulb that blooms in early spring with stunning, bell-shaped flowers in shades of vivid blue. These compact plants are perfect for naturalizing in woodland gardens, borders, lawns, or under trees, where they can create a carpet of blue blooms. Scilla is beloved by gardeners for its resilience, ability to thrive in challenging conditions, and the vibrant splash of color it provides during the early spring months. This comprehensive guide will teach you how to plant, grow, and care for Scilla siberica, ensuring it flourishes year after year in your garden.

Why Grow Scilla?

Scilla is a versatile and reliable choice for any garden due to its beautiful flowers, early bloom time, and ability to naturalize. Here’s why you should consider adding Scilla to your garden:

1. Early Spring Blooms: Scilla siberica blooms in early spring, sometimes even through the last of the snow, providing a burst of color at a time when most plants are still dormant.
2. Easy to Grow: Scilla is incredibly hardy and requires little maintenance once established, making it an excellent choice for beginner gardeners.
3. Naturalizes Easily: Scilla spreads and multiplies over time, forming a beautiful carpet of blue blooms with minimal effort.
4. Compact Growth: Its low-growing habit makes it ideal for planting in rock gardens, borders, or under trees where other plants might struggle.
5. Pollinator-Friendly: Scilla attracts bees and other early-season pollinators, supporting your garden’s ecosystem.

Let’s explore how you can successfully grow Scilla siberica and enjoy its stunning blue blooms for many springs to come.

Best Varieties of Scilla for Your Garden

While Scilla siberica is the most common species, there are several other varieties of Scilla that you can grow to add different colors and textures to your garden. Here are a few popular varieties:

1. Scilla siberica

• Description: The classic Siberian squill with deep blue, bell-shaped flowers that bloom on 6- to 8-inch tall stems.
• Ideal for: Naturalizing in woodland gardens, under trees, or in lawns.

2. Scilla mischtschenkoana

• Description: A pale blue to white variety, with flowers that feature delicate blue stripes, blooming slightly earlier than Scilla siberica.
• Ideal for: Adding soft color to shaded borders or rock gardens.

3. Scilla bifolia

• Description: A small, early-flowering variety with star-shaped blue, white, or pink flowers.
• Ideal for: Rock gardens, containers, and small spaces.

4. Scilla peruviana

• Description: An unusual variety with large clusters of blue or purple flowers on tall stems. Despite its name, this plant is native to the Mediterranean, not Peru.
• Ideal for: Borders, cutting gardens, and Mediterranean-style gardens.

5. Scilla litardierei

• Description: Also known as Amethyst Meadow Squill, this variety has delicate blue or violet flowers that appear in dense clusters.
• Ideal for: Mass plantings, borders, and woodland gardens.

By planting different Scilla varieties, you can enjoy a diverse and colorful display in early spring.

How to Plant Scilla Bulbs

1. When to Plant Scilla Bulbs

Scilla bulbs should be planted in the fall, between September and November, before the first hard frost. This allows the bulbs to establish roots during the winter, ensuring healthy growth and blooms in early spring.

2. Choosing the Right Location

Scilla thrives in full sun to partial shade and prefers well-draining soil. It grows particularly well in woodland settings or under deciduous trees, where it can enjoy early spring sunlight before the trees fully leaf out.

Scilla siberica can tolerate various soil types, but it does best in soil that is rich in organic matter. Avoid planting Scilla in areas where water tends to pool, as the bulbs can rot in soggy soil. If necessary, amend heavy soil with compost or sand to improve drainage.

3. Preparing the Soil

Scilla prefers slightly acidic to neutral soil (pH 6.0-7.0). Before planting, loosen the soil to a depth of about 6 to 8 inches and mix in compost or organic matter to improve soil structure and fertility.

4. Planting Depth and Spacing

• Depth: Plant Scilla bulbs about 3 to 4 inches deep. This depth ensures the bulbs are protected from frost and will establish strong roots.
• Spacing: Space the bulbs 3 to 4 inches apart for a dense display. For a more natural look, scatter the bulbs randomly and plant them where they land.

5. How to Plant Scilla Bulbs

1. Dig the Holes: Use a bulb planter or trowel to dig individual holes or a shallow trench for mass plantings.
2. Place the Bulbs: Place the bulbs in the holes with the pointed end facing upwards.
3. Cover with Soil: Gently cover the bulbs with soil and press down lightly to remove air pockets.
4. Water: Water the area thoroughly after planting to help the bulbs settle in and begin rooting.

6. Mulching (Optional)

In colder climates, adding a thin layer of mulch after planting can help insulate the bulbs during winter and retain moisture in the soil.

Caring for Scilla Throughout the Growing Season

1. Watering

Scilla bulbs require minimal watering once established. After planting, water the bulbs thoroughly to help them settle in and establish roots. During the growing season, Scilla usually relies on natural rainfall, but if the weather is particularly dry, you can give them a light watering to keep the soil moist.

2. Fertilizing

Scilla does not require heavy feeding. However, adding compost or a balanced slow-release fertilizer to the soil when planting will give the bulbs the nutrients they need to thrive. In early spring, before or during blooming, you can apply a light application of fertilizer to promote strong growth.

3. Deadheading and Maintenance

Scilla is a low-maintenance plant that will naturalize with little intervention. Once the flowers have faded, there’s no need to deadhead them. Allow the foliage to die back naturally, as this helps the bulbs store energy for the next growing season.

4. Dividing Scilla Bulbs

Over time, Scilla will multiply and form dense clumps. If your planting becomes overcrowded or the plants produce fewer flowers, it may be time to divide the bulbs.

Here’s how to divide Scilla bulbs:

1. When to Divide: The best time to divide Scilla is in late summer or early fall, after the foliage has died back.
2. How to Divide: Carefully dig up the clumps of bulbs and separate the smaller bulbs from the parent plant.
3. Replanting: Replant the divided bulbs immediately, spacing them 3 to 4 inches apart, or store them in a cool, dry place until fall planting.

Dividing the bulbs every 3 to 5 years will help maintain a healthy display and encourage vigorous blooming.

Growing Scilla in Containers

Scilla grows well in containers, making it a great option for patios, balconies, and small garden spaces. Their compact size also makes them perfect for planting with other spring bulbs.

Steps for Growing Scilla in Pots:

1. Choose the Right Container: Use a container that is at least 6 inches deep with good drainage holes. Scilla doesn’t require much space, so the bulbs can be planted relatively close together.
2. Planting Depth: Plant the bulbs about 3 to 4 inches deep, following the same depth guidelines as in garden beds.
3. Spacing: Space the bulbs 2 to 3 inches apart in the container for a fuller display.
4. Soil: Use a well-draining potting mix and add compost for extra nutrients.
5. Watering: Water the container after planting and keep the soil moist during the growing season, but avoid overwatering.

Naturalizing Scilla in Lawns and Gardens

One of the most appealing aspects of Scilla is its ability to naturalize and spread over time, creating a beautiful carpet of blue flowers. Here’s how to naturalize Scilla effectively:

• Plant in Drifts: For a more natural look, plant Scilla in clusters or drifts rather than in straight rows. This will mimic how they grow in the wild.
• Minimal Maintenance: Once established, Scilla will naturalize with little intervention. Allow the foliage to die back naturally and avoid disturbing the area during the dormant period.
• Leave Undisturbed: To encourage naturalization, leave the bulbs in the ground and let them multiply over time. Scilla will spread on its own, filling in the planting area with ease.

Common Problems When Growing Scilla

1. Scilla Not Blooming

• Cause: This could be due to overcrowding, lack of sunlight, or poor soil drainage.
• Solution: Ensure the bulbs are planted in well-draining soil, receive enough sunlight, and divide overcrowded clumps every few years.

2. Yellowing Leaves Before Blooming

• Cause: Poor drainage or overwatering can cause the leaves to yellow before the plant has a chance to bloom.
• Solution: Improve soil drainage by amending the soil with compost or sand, and avoid overwatering.

3. Pests

Scilla is relatively pest-resistant, but rodents may dig up the bulbs. To prevent this, plant the bulbs deeper or cover the planting area with mesh until the bulbs have established.

Final Thoughts

Scilla siberica is a beautiful and low-maintenance addition to any garden, offering a burst of vibrant blue color in early spring. With proper planting, care, and minimal maintenance, Scilla will reward you with a stunning display of blooms year after year. Whether you’re planting them in borders, containers, or naturalizing them in your lawn, Scilla is sure to bring joy and color to your spring garden.

By following this guide, you can successfully plant, care for, and enjoy Scilla siberica, ensuring they thrive and create a carpet of blooms in your garden for years to come.

Find more spring bulbs to plant in the garden and allotment here