When should I buy nerine bulbs?
Buying nerines from late summer and as potted, flowering plants in autumn. Nerine bulbs are also available by mail-order from bulb specialists in spring and autumn. The bulbs can be left in the same pot for several years, as they bloom best when crowded. Water freely when the plants have foliage but do not water when the bulbs are dormant. Nerines do not need much fertilization, so apply dilute fertilizer only once or twice a season when the leaves are actively growing.However, they can be affected by snails and slugs that will happily eat away at the young shoots in the spring. Watch out for damage! Nerines, also known as Guernsey lilies, are exotic bulbs native to South Africa that bring a unique splash of colour and fragrance to your autumn garden.Because the weather is cooler in the late summer and fall, Nerine flowers can last for two weeks with individual buds seldom opening simultaneously. Its bulbs somewhat resemble a narcissus’, but are only three to four inches in diameter.
How long do nerine bulbs take to grow?
If you plant them too deeply they might not flower, so take care to ensure the bulbs sit just below the surface. Mulch for the first winter until established and expect to wait a year or so for the bulbs to flower prolifically. They also grow very well in pots. Nerines can also be grown from seed. Plant your bulbs too deep and flowers will bloom late or not at all, plus you’re likely to get more foliage at the expense of the flowers. If planted too shallow, new growth will become exposed too soon, leaving it more vulnerable to damage by cold temperatures.
Are nerine bulbs hardy?
Nerines are hardy but can be sensitive to severe frost. In colder regions, it’s a good idea to apply a light mulch over the soil in late autumn to help protect the bulbs. In milder climates, they can survive light frosts without issue. Overwatering your Nerine can lead to yellowing leaves, mushy bulbs, and even root rot. Conversely, underwatering results in wilting, dry leaves, and shriveled bulbs.
How to encourage nerines to flower?
Nerines do best in a well-drained site with full sun and love it at the base of a sunny, south-facing wall. A good summer baking encourages plenty of flowers in autumn. Plant the bulbs shallowly two-thirds below soil level 10-15cm apart. Water them in well. Nerine performs best in full sun but will grow in partial afternoon shade. The ideal soil is rich and porous and drains well, yet still holds enough water for the roots. If your soil is heavy clay and drains slowly, or very sandy and does not hold water, add organic soil amendments like peat moss or ground bark.Nerine ‘Leila Hughes’ thrives in full sun; choose a warm, protected spot for growth. Well-draining soil with pH 6. All parts are toxic to pets and humans; seek help if ingested.
Do nerines flower the first year?
During the first year after planting, nerines can be shy to flower. Be patient: as soon as they have settled in they should produce lots of flowers. The bulbs hate being disturbed, so once you have planted them avoid moving the bulbs until they are so congested that they stop flowering. However, they can be affected by snails and slugs that will happily eat away at the young shoots in the spring. Watch out for damage! Nerines, also known as Guernsey lilies, are exotic bulbs native to South Africa that bring a unique splash of colour and fragrance to your autumn garden.