How to Grow Companion Plants of Alliums

Varieties of the flowering allium bloom from spring through summer and may reach a height of only a few inches to more than a foot. Allium adds impact to the back of the flowerbed, with large, showy heads. When combined with shorter specimens that bloom at the same time, alliums can be part of an eye-catching display in the landscape. Allium family members include the flowering garden onion and other varieties used only for ornamental value. Most are resistant to wildlife and protect the garden from pests.

Allium bulbs
Flower bulbs and seeds

Instructions

- 1
  Plant other spring flowering bulbs with alliums in autumn. Companions for the blooming allium can include tulips, daffodils and lilies. Any plant that grows in hot, dry conditions may be considered a good companion.
- 2
  Plant bulbs three times as deep as their height, into well-draining soil. Soil quality is not of extreme importance when planting allium and many of their companions. Use bulbs with dense foliage to cover the withering foliage of the allium when it has finished its blooming season next year.
- 3
  Cover the area with mulch to protect bulbs from winter cold and heaving.
- 4
  Plant shorter perennials in front of the allium bulbs in spring. The candytuft flower offers interesting contrast with alliums. Candytuft should be planted in well-draining, alkaline soil in a sunny location, as should the allium. Subsequent bloom times make the candytuft plant and the allium a colorful combination in the flowerbed.
- 5
  Acidic soil may be amended with lime to encourage growth of allium and the candytuft plant. Candytuft flowers appear in early spring through summer, often reblooming in fall.

Lily Flowers With White Spots on Leaves

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Bulbs