Giant Squill Planting & Growing Guide
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Top 1-2" above soil line
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24" Apart
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Spring
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Low-maintenance, blooms summer to fall, foliage appears in winter to spring.
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Low
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Late Summer
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Full Sun
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Zones 9-10
Where to Plant
Plant your Squill in full sun or under the canopy of deciduous trees where the soil drains well, as they do not grow well in moist soils. If you notice water puddles 5–6 hours after a hard rain, that means it’s time to scout out another site. While they can be grown in containers in cooler climates, they prefer not to be moved and develop very large roots that can make it difficult.
When to Plant
Plant the gigantic bulbs in the spring or early to mid-autumn, as these beauties begin blooming around late summer and drop their leaves in the fall.
How to Plant
- Establish a location where the soil drains well, and your Squill will receive plenty of sunlight.
- Dig holes and plant the bulbs 18 to 24" apart, allowing for the mature size, with the tops even with the soil surface.
- Water well after planting, thoroughly soaking the area once to settle the soil around the bulbs.
How to Grow
- Water infrequently during active growth, allowing the soil to dry out completely.
- Remove the leaves in early summer when they turn yellow and begin to die back, as this will make it easier for the flower stalk to grow.
- Trim off the flower stalk after blooming has finished, allowing for new growth to emerge and provide nourishment for the next growing season.
- Avoid watering entirely when your Squill goes dormant and provide protection from winter rains.
Squill Tips & Tricks
- Plant Squill for outstanding counter-seasonal greenery in your landscape.
- Expect roots and leaves to form in the autumn, with foliage remaining green and lush until the start of the dormancy period in May. The flower stalks develop in late summer and grow very quickly.
- Don’t bother to feed Squill - they’ll grow beautifully without any fertilizer.
- Feel free to snip flower stems while in bloom for unusual bouquets, as doing so will not hurt the plants.
- Bear in mind that Giant Sea Squill are Mediterranean plants that grow best in locations with very little water.
- Don't worry if your Squill looks incredible one day and appears to have been stepped on the next. While many plants slip into dormancy over several weeks, Squill often do so virtually overnight - just adding to the drama!