
Weak Flower Stems on Alliums
Last spring, the blooms on my Gladiator allium bulbs grew so heavy that they broke off of their stems. Is there anything I can do this year to keep it from happening again?
Ornamental alliums (flowering onions) tolerate a wide range of conditions but do best in full sun and well-drained soils. Excess shade, wet soils and too much fertilizer can lead to weak stems. Avoid over fertilizing and over watering these plants. If the problem occurs this year consider moving the bulbs to a sunnier location with well-drained soils. In the meantime you can try staking the individual blooms. Create your own or check out what is available at your local garden center. Many carry a single metal stake with a simple loop designed to support flower blossoms.
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