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Scilla Planting Guide
We can't get enough of these cheerful blooms, and soon, you won't be able to resist their charm either! Not only do they make excellent indoor or outdoor plants, but they're also remarkably easy to grow. Plus, they can't be bothered by deer or rabbits and are super attractive to butterflies. Ready to learn more about planting and caring for Scilla plants? Here's everything you need to know.
Success Snapshot

PLANTING
DEPTH
Species dependent

WATER
QUANTITY
Moderate; Low in dormancy

SUNLIGHT
QUANTITY
Full to Partial Sun

PLANTING
PROXIMITY
Species dependent

BLOOM
SEASON
Species dependent; Generally in Spring

HARDINESS
ZONES
Species dependent
Shop Related Products

Striped Squill (Puschkinia)
$6.95
Contains: 50 Scilla bulbs
Botanical Name: Puschkinia scilloides
Exposure: Partial Sun
Hardiness: Zones 4-8

Scilla Bifolia Rosea (Rosy Squill)
$6.95
Contains: 10 Scilla bulbs
Botanical Name: Scilla bifolia 'Rosea'
Exposure: Full Sun to Partial Sun
Hardiness: Zones 3-8

Scilla Peruviana (Peruvian Lily)
$19.95
Contains: 3 Scilla bulbs
Botanical Name: Scilla peruviana
Exposure: Full Sun to Partial Sun
Hardiness: Zones 8-10

Scilla Bifolia 'Blue'
$6.95
Contains: 10 Scilla bulbs
Botanical Name: Scilla bifolia 'Blue'
Exposure: Full Sun to Partial Sun
Hardiness: Zones 3-8
Where to Plant
Plant your Scilla bulbs in a location where the soil drains well, and they will receive some sun. These resilient plants thrive in various light conditions, from full sun to partial shade to dappled shade. If you notice puddles of water 5ā6 hours after a hard rain, scout out another site or amend the soil with organic material to raise the level 2ā3 inches. Scilla are remarkably tolerant but require proper drainage and will not grow well in waterlogged soils.
When to Plant
For the best results, plant your Scilla bulbs sometime between mid and late fall, ideally within a month of receiving them. While they can be planted after the first frost, ensure that the ground is not yet frozen. Roots will form shortly after that, with leaves and flowers developing in the spring for most varieties.
How to Plant
- For outdoor landscape planting, find a spot where the soil drains well, and your Scilla plants will receive good light. Dig holes and plant the bulbs 3ā4" deep and 4" apart at the base with the small points facing up.
- For container planting, start with good quality, well-draining potting soil and containers with adequate drainage holes. Dig holes and plant the bulbs 3ā4" deep and 4" apart at the base with the small points facing up. Site your containers where they will receive good light.
- Water thoroughly, soaking the soil to settle it around the bulbs.
How to Grow
- Water as needed during active growth periods, with about 1" of moisture per week as a rough estimate.
- Leave the foliage in place after blooming has finished for the season. The leaves will gather sunlight to create food through photosynthesis, strengthening the bulb for the future.
- Remove the dry foliage when the leaves turn yellow and die back as the plants slip into dormancy around early to mid-summer.
- Allow your Scilla plants to rest for a few months before beginning their next growing cycle.
Scilla Tips & Tricks
- Pair these critter-resistant wonders with white Daffodils or Anemones for a spectacular spring display that the butterflies will love!
- Amend the soil with ground bark, decomposed manure, or compost to improve drainage and encourage a healthy start.
- Plant spring-blooming Scilla varieties in containers with other early-flowering bulbs, such as Daffodil Ice Follies or Golden Bells.
- Check individual product pages for additional light exposure information on each variety.
- Feel free to cut flowers for colorful bouquets when in bloom, as doing so will not hurt the plants.
- Use larger containers for Scilla Peruviana and plan to leave the bulbs in place for several seasons so they can develop into substantial clumps.
- Expect the foliage of Scilla Peruviana to stay green year-round, depending on your climate.