Should you soak bulbs or plants before planting?Updated 8 months ago

Bulbs don't need to be soaked prior to planting, although we do recommend that anemone and ranunculus bulbs are given a soak in water for 6-12 hours prior to planting. These bulbs normally appear dehydrated/shrivelled on arrival, but after a soak in water you should see them plump up. Absorbing a good amount of moisture helps them to come out of dormancy. 

Summer bulbs, such as dahlias, begonias, colocasia and caladiums, don't need to be pre-soaked but should be watered directly after planting. They shouldn't be watered again until the soil feels mostly dry. 

Spring bulbs (planted in autumn) don't need to be soaked or watered after planting, they should be outdoors and natural rainfall/moisture in the soil is usually enough to keep them happy. Although, spring bulbs should be watered in spring once they start to grow if the soil starts to dry out. 

There's further advice available in our detailed planting and care instructions.