Propagating Annual Corms

[Alan_b]

I have been able to secure a pale form of bulbous buttercup ("F.M Burton") that I have been after for a while.  But reading up on Ranunculus bulbosus here http://old.gardenorganic.org.uk/organicweeds/weed_information/weed.php?id=70 I find that it is a corm that completely renews itself each year.  So unless it comes true from seed then propagation represents quite a challenge.  There must be established techniques for this type of corm/bulb but I would be grateful to hear from anyone familiar with them.  Perhaps there is some sort of controlled damage that will persuade the corm to grow multiple shoots?       

[Ian Y]

A corm is a compressed stem so like any stem if you removed the dominant shoot you should encourage side shoots to form. I have tried this with Crocus corms, removing the shoot, with varying degrees of success - it would certainly be worth trying if you have some spares.

[Alan_b]

Thank you, Ian, that makes excellent sense.  The only problem is that I won't get any spares until I learn how to propagate them.

[mark smyth]

Did CGF send a good pot full or a single plant?