Crown Imperial

Planting Advice:

• Plant 30cm (12in) deep from September to November in fertile, well-drained soil, and keep an eye out for slug and snail damage when the new foliage is emerging in spring.
• Plants benefit from early morning sun then light shade in the afternoon.
• Avoid heavy clay or anywhere where water sits.
• Heavy soil can be improved with the addition of sharp sand or horticultural grit.
• Add 1cm (½ in) of course sand to the planting hole before placing the bulbs pointed end up. 

Aftercare Advice:

• When growing fritillaries, it is essential to allow their foliage to die back naturally as this will feed the bulb for the following year.
• During their dormant period the soil should be kept almost dry to prevent the bulbs from rotting. Begin watering sparingly as the bulbs start back into active growth.
• After flowering has finished, trim off spent blossoms. The stalks will dry and then can be removed. 

Trimming Advice for Fritillaries:

• Leave stems to turn brown before trimming back to the base. This will ensure that nutrients have been returned to the bulb for next season.