Planting Pleione bulbs

When to plant Pleione bulbs?

The ideal time to plant Pleiones is in late winter or very early spring, typically between February and April. At this time, the bulbs are dormant, making them less susceptible to the stress of repotting or transplanting. It’s important to plant them before their active growth begins.

Where to plant Pleiones?

Pleiones are plants that thrive in cool, bright locations but without direct sunlight. They flourish in shaded or semi-shaded conditions. When planted in the ground, they prefer a spot sheltered from cold winds and heavy frosts. In pots, choose a bright location protected from direct sunlight, such as a shaded terrace, a cool greenhouse, or a conservatory.

• In the ground: Pleiones can be planted outdoors in regions with mild winters (hardiness zones 7 to 9). If you live in a colder region, you will need to protect them in winter with a thick mulch or dig them up to store them indoors during the cold season. Plant your Pleiones in slightly acidic, humus-rich, moist, light, and well-drained soil, in a partially shaded position.
• In pots: Pleiones grow very well in containers, allowing better control over growing conditions, particularly protection from the cold. A mix of compost (special seedling or orchid compost) and pumice with good drainage will ensure beautiful flowering.

How to plant Pleiones?

Planting in the ground

• Soil preparation: Pleiones appreciate well-drained soil, rich in organic matter. You can create a mix of garden soil, light potting compost, and coarse sand. The soil should remain slightly moist, but never waterlogged to prevent bulb rot.
• Bulb placement: Plant the bulbs about 5 cm deep, with the eye (the pointed part) facing upwards. Space each bulb 10 to 15 cm apart to ensure good air circulation.
• Watering: Water lightly after planting to settle the bulbs, but avoid overwatering to prevent excess moisture.

Pot planting

• Pot choice: Choose a shallow but wide enough pot to accommodate several bulbs. The pot must have drainage holes to prevent water accumulation. So-called “bonsai pots” are perfect for growing Pleiones.
• Growing medium: Use a mix of light potting compost (seed compost for example), coarse sand and perlite or pumice. Drainage is essential!
• Bulb placement: Place the bulbs 2 to 3 cm deep, always with the eye facing upwards. In pots, you can group several bulbs together for a more spectacular flowering effect, making sure to space them slightly apart.
• Watering: As with ground planting, water lightly after planting, then wait until the first shoots appear before resuming more regular watering.

Caring for Your Orchids After Planting

• Watering: Once growth has started, pleiones should be watered regularly, but always allowing the growing medium to dry slightly between waterings. They dislike excess moisture which can cause rot. In winter, during their dormant period, reduce watering significantly, or stop altogether if the bulbs are kept dry.
• Fertiliser: During the active growing season (spring-summer), apply a liquid flower fertiliser every 2 to 3 weeks, especially for pot-grown plants. Gradually reduce feeding in autumn before stopping completely in winter.
• Frost protection: If pleiones are grown outdoors in frost-prone areas, mulch them generously in autumn. For pot-grown plants, move them to a sheltered spot (such as a greenhouse or garage) to protect them from winter frosts.
• Repotting: Pleiones should be repotted every 2 to 3 years, ideally at the beginning of their dormant period. Take this opportunity to divide the bulbs if necessary.