Fall is the best time to plant anemone if you want Spring blooms
For cold climates, it’s best to plant the bulbs early in the fall, as soon as the summer heat begins to fade BUT because our late summer has extended until now, it's still safe to plant anemones.
For Fall-blooming anemones, like Anemone hupehensis or Anemone tomentosa, plant the bulbs or rhizomes in the early spring as soon as the soil is workable. This gives the plants enough time to grow, establish roots, and store energy for their late-summer to fall bloom period.
Plant anemone bulbs 1-2 inches deep and about 3-4 inches apart, in a spot with well-draining soil and partial to full sunlight. Soak the bulbs in water for a few hours before planting to give them a head start, as this helps soften the bulbs and encourages faster root development.
After planting in the Fall, water well and then leave them alone. If planting Spring anemones, water well after planting and then about an inch per week thereafter. NOTE: anemones will rot easily if there is too much moisture.
Anemones are beautiful and you’ll be rewarded with beautiful anemone blooms that bring vibrant color to your garden if you plant them. Please know, however, that some kinds of anemones can be invasive and can choke out other plants and take over a garden if not kept in check:
- Japanese anemones: These anemones can spread by underground runners and self-seeding, and can become difficult to eradicate. They can spread easily in loose, sandy soils and can form a tall ground cover. To control them, you can remove new shoots as they appear, or divide and replant established clumps.
- Meadow anemones: These anemones spread quickly and are not suitable for small gardens.
- Non-invasive anemones Anemone hupehensis var. japonica and Anemone x hybrida 'Wild Swan' are better options for those with sandy soils or in need of a low-maintenance garden.
Anemones are considered perennials and become dormant when the temperatures stay above 70 degrees F for extended periods of time.