Old, tired Globemaster allium bulbs

12 years ago

The big, beautiful Allium Globemaster bulbs that were planted in my garden when I moved here ten years ago are now a shadow of their former selves--they're so much smaller and spindly, even.

I understand bulbs can lose their vigor after a time, and I have babied them with compost after they flower, is there any way to bring them back to their former glory? Is it doable to try and grow new ones from the seeds? If so, they still be "globemaster"?

Thank you.

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Comments (7)

southerngardening24
12 years ago
I would dig them up and divide them.
auntlavender
Original Author
12 years ago
Can I do this after they flower and the leaves die back?
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katob Z6ish, NE Pa
12 years ago
Yup, perfect time to do it is after the leaves yellow. Dig some of that compost down to where the bulbs are planted and they should bulk up again. I like to replant in a new spot since it seems some plants tire out the soil and will do well moving around every few years.
auntlavender
Original Author
12 years ago
Thank you. I would love to do what I can to rejuvenate these as new ones are pricey. I was thinking of moving them anyway.
Tiffany, purpleinopp Z8b Opp, AL
12 years ago
Over time, the growth of trees can make more shade on an area that had more sun a decade before. Maybe a factor?
auntlavender
Original Author
12 years ago
Why yes---a giant pine has been steadily getting bigger these ten years. Time for dividing and moving.
ontnative
12 years ago
Globemaster will not reproduce from seeds, as it is a sterile cultivar. Probably why they are so expensive. The bulbs split in half, and can be carefully separated and replanted in a sunnier spot. Given some time to adjust, they should bloom well for you again.