Can You Move Allium Bulbs in Spring? A Complete Guide

Spring is prime time for gardeners to divide, transplant, and move plants around their landscape. The warming soil and renewed growth make it an ideal period for such tasks But when it comes to spring blooming bulbs like alliums, many gardeners wonder – can you move allium bulbs in spring?

You can move allium bulbs in the spring, but it’s not the best time. Here’s a full guide on moving alliums in the spring, with tips on how to do it right and when fall might be a better time.

Understanding the Allium Growth Cycle

Before transplanting alliums. it’s helpful to understand their natural growth cycle

• Fall – Allium bulbs are planted in autumn and establish roots before winter dormancy.

• Winter – Bulbs are dormant through winter months as they store energy. Foliage dies back.

• Spring – As soil warms, bulb growth resumes. Slender leaves and then flower stalks emerge and bloom April-July.

• Summer – Flowers fade, foliage dies back as bulbs become dormant and replenish reserves for next flowering season.

This cycle shows why transplanting after flowering as bulbs prepare for dormancy can impact next year’s bloom. However, with care, spring transplanting can be successful.

Can You Transplant Allium Bulbs in Spring?

While not ideal, it is possible to move allium bulbs in spring using proper technique:

• Wait until flowers fade – Transplant immediately after bloom, before foliage starts dying back. This reduces stress.

• Water well before digging – Hydrated soil makes bulb removal easier and lessens root damage.

• Carefully dig. Use a garden fork to loosen the ground and carefully lift bulbs with their roots still attached. Handle bulbs with care.

• Remove excess soil – Gently shake off any soil clinging to roots before replanting.

• Plant again at the right depth. Check the bulb’s depth and plant it at the same level, with the neck just below the soil.

• Water thoroughly – Water transplants well after replanting and provide regular water for several weeks.

• Avoid disturbing roots – Place bulbs carefully to avoid damaging root zone. Firm soil gently around roots.

• Mulch for moisture retention – Apply 2-3 inch organic mulch layer to help retain moisture.

• Mark locations – Note original spot and variety in case bulbs underperform.

Aftercare for Transplanted Allium Bulbs

Follow these tips for healthy, flowering bulbs after spring transplanting:

• Provide temporary shade in hot, dry conditions

• Check soil moisture often, water when surface is dry down to 6 inches

• Apply balanced fertilizer per label directions in 4-6 weeks

• Monitor for pests/diseases and treat promptly

• Allow foliage to die back naturally after blooming

• Mark locations to evaluate performance

When is the Best Time to Move Allium Bulbs?

While spring transplanting is possible, the ideal time to move allium bulbs is in early autumn, when the foliage has died back after blooming but before the ground has frozen. This allows the bulbs to establish roots before winter dormancy for optimal spring flowering.

Fall transplanting tips:

• Time it 6-8 weeks before first frost

• Water site thoroughly before digging bulbs

• Replant at same depth bulbs were originally grown

• Provide thorough post-transplant watering and care

• Note poorly performing bulbs to properly evaluate results

FAQ about Moving Allium Bulbs in Spring

Can you divide allium bulbs in spring?

It’s best to divide bulbs in fall, but overgrown clumps can be divided after spring blooming. Cut foliage back to 6 inches, dig carefully, and replant 15-18 inches apart.

What if transplanted alliums don’t bloom?

Stressed bulbs may need 1-2 seasons to recover before reflowering. Ensure proper planting depth, water, light, and care. Mark sites and fertilize lightly in early spring to support flowering.

Can you move bulbs after flowering?

Yes, but transplant immediately before foliage starts dying back to reduce stress and allow some regrowth before dormancy.

Can you transplant bulbs in summer?

Summer dormancy transplanting is not recommended as it can disrupt preparation for the next blooming season. Fall is the best time.

The Takeaway on Transplanting Alliums in Spring

While it’s possible to move allium bulbs in spring, the ideal time is early autumn when the bulbs are dormant. This allows them to establish roots before winter for minimal transplant stress and optimal spring flowering. Use proper care when transplanting in spring and be prepared if bulbs underperform while recovering. For best results, plan to move allium bulbs in the fall season instead.