How to Care for Buttercups

Plant tubers or bulbs indoors in a pot in the late winter, February or March, to give them a good start for spring blooming. Soak tubers in warm water for a few hours before planting so they can get a head start on reabsorbing moisture. Tubers should be planted at a depth of 1 inch with the points turned downward in fresh commercial potting soil. Using new soil ensures that you are not introducing any soilborne fungi or disease to your plant. Keep the soil moist, but not soggy, by using a pot that has good drainage.

Move plants outdoors after the last frost to an area that receives full sun. Buttercups prefer cool temperatures -- around 60 degrees Fahrenheit, according to Iowa State University. You can leave them in pots for a portable decorative display or plant them in the ground.

Use a water-soluble fertilizer, such as 12-12-12, every few weeks for maximum color and lush growth.

Deadhead spent flowers throughout the blooming season to encourage new growth. Deadheading allows the plant to direct energy to producing new blooms instead of supporting old stalks and flower heads.

Dig up tubers in the fall, wash off any excess dirt and cut away any diseased or bruised areas. Bacteria or fungus left on a tuber can spread throughout your stored buttercups and destroy your collection. Allow bulbs to dry thoroughly by placing them on some newspaper out in the driveway for at least four hours. Store in a dry, dark location, such as the garage or basement, where there is no danger of tubers freezing.