Agapanthus begins to flower in the summertime around June to August depending on the cultivar. The two ways to propagate Agapanthus are from seed and by root division. There are dwarf plants that grow four inches tall, and larger Agapanthus that will grow up to 48 inches in height. Choose a cultivar that grows in your hardiness zone (check the back of the seed packet) and follow the directions. Once you know about plants that grow well with agapanthus, you can select agapanthus companion plants for your garden. Propagate by division every three to four years in spring. This is particularly important for agapanthus in containers, which dry out more quickly than those in the ground. Also called Lily of the Nile or Blue African Lily, agapanthus is the queen of the late summer garden. If they are pale with stripes and the plant flowers poorly, then your Agapanthus has a virus and is best thrown out. Agapanthus are ideal for containers. Caring For Agapanthus in Planters How awesome would that be? The name Agapanthus comes from the combination of the Greek words agape (love) and anthos (flower). "@type": "ImageObject", Agapanthus 'Peter Pan' (African Lily) is an attractive dwarf herbaceous perennial boasting rounded clusters of trumpet-shaped, light blue flowers, each petal with a darker mid-vein. New plants only flower after 1-2 years after theyve rooted properly. If plants are beginning to rot at the root, they should be removed, and replaced. A lot of gardeners like to line their pathways or border edgings with this plant. If you have a vibrant blue or purple agapanthus, pick flowers in complementary colors, like yellows and oranges. Low growing alyssum or dianthus look magical along the border. 40-Cell Forestry Tube Tray with 50mm Native/Forestry Tube Stock Pots. Soil becomes clumpy and hard over time, especially when plant food is added to the mix. It all depends on your preferences. But dont get careless just because its a full hardy plant. Unless your plant has yellowing flowers, dont supplement any more nitrogen. Agapanthus: A growing guide - YouTube Smaller plants can do fine in small containers. If this sounds like the way to go, read this article to learn about propagating agapanthus by seed, step by step. . Agapanthuswill need to be watered more frequently while in a pot, but also needs to drain well to avoid any rot. Use a light, well-drained potting mix to plant your agapanthus. Agapanthus plants can be lifted and divided once they have formed established clumps. The new roots will develop after 30 days and runners will shoot out into the soil. Here are some tips for taking care of your potted agapanthus. Gray mold appearing on blossoms. Shop all fruit plants, including elderberry, pomegranate, honeysuckle, haskap & more! Agapanthus grown in zones 6-7 is deciduous. If you only have one plant, put it in the middle of the container so its equidistant from all sides. Agapanthus seed propagation isn't difficult, but keep in mind that the plants likely won't produce blooms for at least two or three years. From 1 pot I cut 3 giant roots into 2 pieces each. Growing Agapanthus in a Pot - BBC Gardeners World Magazine During this time, you only need to water once or twice a week. Plus, itll reduce transplant shock as well. Mulching over theAgapanthusshould be performed for more delicate varieties, with mulch a few inches thick above the plants. "author": { These arent cold-hardy plants. Then cut off and destroy any affected parts of the plant. Either its being watered too frequently, or its soil isnt draining well enough. Deleting this collection CANNOT be undone. Those tall, purple and blue flowers. I always suggest at least 3 holes on the bottom to ensure drainage even if one gets clogged. Agapanthus doesnt like to have wet feet, as this will cause root rot and fungal problems. Agapanthus will not tolerate waterlogged soil. During this low-energy state, the plant can be transplanted into a new container and slowly acclimated to its new environment. Make sure youre planting in full sun with at least 6 hours of daily sunlight. Cut back the flower stems when flowering is over so the plant spends its energy on flower bud formation for the following year. Remove all dead petals, leaves, stalks, etc. Agapanthus Flower - Secrets of Successful - The Flower Expert But there are some issues that could crop up withAgapanthusover time or when first planted. This is because agapanthus likes to be root-bound in a way that the roots touch the edge of the container and start to curl. Soil type: Agapanthus grow best in well-drained soil. These are easy to identify compared to the rest of the growing flowers because theyll be turning brown and dropping off petals. To enjoy the blooms, you can place the potter where itll be visible as a foreground plant. If its deciduous, cut until there are a few inches of stalk left behind. By Bonnie L. Grant, Certified Urban Agriculturist. Or, enjoy the architectural seedheads on your agapanthus plants. Established clumps of agapanthus can withstand -10C to -15C if the ground is well drained, but the number of flowers may be reduced the following summer. Agapanthus doesnt need much in terms of acclimation. Interestingly, a potted agapanthus performs best when it is rootbound. Some people regard them as weeds. Our latest plant guides written by gardeners just like you! And well talk about everything you need to know to grow it in a pot. The roots will take up all the space you provide it. But despite being a hardy plant, it can have some challenges, especially if grown in an environment to which it isnt well-suited. Registered in England & Wales #06694059. Thats the icing on the cake, right? How to grow agapanthus in your garden Step 1 Choose a place in the garden that gets full sun to part shade. Dont waste time deadheading it to precision. With the portability of planting them in containers, you can move them around as you wish. Typically once each week is an adequate consistency to work with. Here are some of the most common issues. All rights reserved. Before winter,Agapanthuscan be cut back to four inches above the soil. Free-flowering, Agapanthus Brilliant Blue (African Lily) is a compact herbaceous perennial, boasting loose clusters of rich blue flowers, adorned with a darker stripe running through each petal. Choosing the right soil shouldnt be a difficult decision. Thrives in full sun in fertile, moist, and well-drained soil. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. You can get more voluminous and colorful blooms by cutting the spent flowers as soon as they start drooping (when theyre done blooming). Agapanthus 'Rfdd' Double Diamond does not have fruit. And those majestic green stalks. Agapanthus 'Little Dutch White'. Yellow leaves mean that theAgapanthusis likely being exposed to too much moisture. Agapanthus Flowers: Tips For Growing Agapanthus Plants - Gardening Know How A 1-2 inch layer of organic, high-quality mulch softly layered on top of your soil can help keep the water conserved and stop evaporation. Sign up to get all the latest gardening tips! This can happen if the soil is too well-fertilised, or if it is in too large a pot. You dont want to overdo it and waterlog the roots which can lead to fungal problems or root rot. These pockets will create dead zones in your soil and lead to anaerobic pathogens. Other plants that offer long leaves and showy flowers include iris, daylilies, and allium. It beats upgrading each time the plant outgrows it, which could be very expensive over time. "Name": "University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha"}] You can drill them as needed- strategically and multiple so that it doesnt clog. They rise on stiff, upright stalks atop clumps of beautiful, narrow, strap-shaped leaves. Cultivars include 'Double Diamond,' a dwarf variety with double, white blooms, and 'Peter Pan,' a tall plant with big, sky-blue blooms. The Agapanthus, commonly referred to as the Lily-of-the-Nile or the African lily plant, displays large masses of striking blue or white flowers atop a tall and slender stalk. This will result in healthy blooms with plenty of colors since the plant has ample roots to collect nutrients and water from the soil. Also known as Lily of the Nile or African Lily,Agapanthusis an attractive perennial flowering plant that blooms during the summer months. Only plants will be removed from the collection. It is typically grown outdoors. Or you might plant dwarf agapanthus with hydrangea, and then add spiky birds of paradise, wild purple coneflowers, or Shasta daisies. Agapanthusmay take two or three years before they begin to flower. We use cookies on this website, you can read about them here. If the plants are in pots they will need to be brought undercover in October and they will require very little water until spring.Newly planted agapanthus need to be watered regularly. How to Grow Agapanthus - Sunday Gardener They show no sensitivity to pH, except Agapanthus Africanus, which prefers acidic soil. Although in hot climate areas, they do better in partial shade. or deciduous. Dont choose a container thats too small, but dont overdo it either. How to grow agapanthus: add colour and structure with these picture You can also mix and match with them complementary colors to create a landscape scene. Also, theres a wide variety to select from. You can divide your agapanthus easily into smaller plants and propagate them. You can also consider some coarse sand, gravel, or horticultural grit. Try two or three plants to a medium-sized pot, around 30cm (12in) in diameter.You will need to re-pot your plants in two or three years time so choose a pot with straight sides which will make removal of the rootball easier.Use a loam based compost like John Innes No3 and include one part horticultural grit or gravel. The next step is up to personal preference on how you want to start your plant. In addition, select a frost-resistant pot if you plan on overwintering your agapanthus outdoors. The material of the pot doesnt matter. If its the soil itself, you may need to try again with better draining soil. Long-lasting flowers; bulbs must be protected in zones 8 and colder. The best part about growing agapanthus in a plant container is that its easy to relocate them if needed. Spending Sunday mornings in the garden was her vice for the hectic week, and after helping neighbors with their gardens and being asked numerous questions, she decided to make her own free resource for others to enjoy. The top of the root ball should be barely covered. Theyre also found in Mexico and South Africa, among other countries. Accept Create a membership account to save your garden designs and to view them on any device. Many varieties have foliage that is small and grasslike. You can help aid your plant to produce its flowers for you to enjoy by using the right fertilizer. In cooler regions, plant them in full sun; in warmer climes, partial sun works best. There is some discrepancy in the cold hardiness of Agapanthus. One or two stems alone in a vase make a striking display, while just three stems can bring structure and a focal point to a simple arrangement. If you dont already know your hardiness zone, you can find out here. How to Grow Agapanthus: 7 Steps (with Pictures) - wikiHow Agapanthus are very adaptive plants. Best Uses Quick Reference Growing Guide What Is Agapanthus? Agapanthusmay need to be cut back in this situation, especially in the event that winter is approaching. The pot should have at least a 12 diameter. The larger the container, the more forgiving it is overall. To use the website as intended please If you provide us with your name, email address and the payment of a modest $25 annual membership fee, you will become a full member, enabling you to design and save up to 25 of your garden design ideas. Keep animals away from them. Agapanthus grown in zones 8 and higher is evergreen. Agapanthus in pots can also be lifted and divided. A pot naturally restricts their roots and this encourages flower formation. Plant a tall bush or blooming climber, like wisteria, that pulls the eye upward. Find the basal area of the root ball after you carefully uproot the plant. Planting in the right hardiness zone is the first step to ensuring a healthy plant! All these things aside,Agapanthusis a very popular plant when treated with the caution and respect required. African Lilies are poisonous and should not be consumed by humans and pets. By: Hannah Ross Related To: Cottage Garden Flowers Garden Types Gardening Outdoor Rooms Plants Both of these need to be optimal for the best plant growth because it doesnt have access to unlimited resources and unlimited drainage like it would in the soil. Easy to grow, pest and disease free, they feature showy, rounded clusters of brightly colored flowers on stiff, upright stalks atop clumps of beautiful, long, shiny leaves. Agapanthus perform best where root development is restricted, as restricted roots encourage flower formation. Agapanthus are very adaptive plants. If the agapanthus is in a pot, underwatering and lack of fertiliser may also reduce flowering the following season. After you finish backfilling the soil, water generously for the first time. Agapanthus is an attractive flowering perennial native to southern Africa. Durable and strong,Agapanthusare often used as a border or for a pop of colour. They grow well in temperate regions and can withstand heat and drought conditions. Sorry do not know correct names. Plant with the crown just below the soil compost. Ensure that there is plenty of space for it to bulk out. A potted agapanthus should be watered regularly to keep the soil from drying out completely. Becoming a contributing member of Gardenia is easy and can be done in just a few minutes. How big does Agapanthus 'Rfdd' Double Diamond get? Order mixed annual combinations ready to plant in your containers. Required fields are marked *. Place the pot in a bright spot, preferably in a window facing south or southwest. With the added ability to move them around in pots. This provides winter protection for the plants. You will need to water more regularly during hot, dry periods. The smaller the container, the more precise with all the soil metrics you have to be. Agapanthuscan be cut back as needed to reduce leaves and improve flowering. Agapanthusbulbs can cause kidney failure in these animals, which may ultimately lead to death. If your potted plant isnt flowering, try checking the soil profile. Agapanthus perform best where root development is restricted, as restricted roots encourage flower formation. Feed weekly or fortnightly with a balanced liquid feed during the growing season until flowers begin to show colour.If the plants become root bound, split and replant in fresh compost. ), or even shorter. Sadly, many people buy this plant from the garden center only to keep it until winter then throw it out. Cookies, This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google, Learn How To Plant, Care and Grow Bountiful Agapanthus. Terra cotta pots are the classic container for this plant, but theyre extremely heavy when you get into the larger sizes. Knowing when to fertilize agapanthus and what formulas to use will ensure big, bountiful blooms and healthy plants. Sometimes, you might have to sacrifice the whole plant. // ]]>. Replanted in Nov. zone 6. Fortunately, many plants share agapanthuss growing requirements, so you will have a wide selection of potential companion plants for agapanthus. They bloom in midsummer and then again in early fall. Or you might plant dwarf agapanthus with hydrangea, and then add spiky birds of paradise, wild purple coneflowers, or Shasta daisies. Try moving the container to an area directly under the sun at noontime. 1. There are many types ofAgapanthus, including both white and blue varieties. Planting in beds in a sheltered position (for example, against house walls) can reduce the likelihood of frost damage. How to grow agapanthus / RHS Gardening When the roots fill out the container, this plant tends to bloom better and produce less foliage. Allow the plant to rest in the winter by reducing the watering and fertilizing frequency. But it can also be the most rewarding way of growing agapanthus. }, Ive always been interested in gardening, but I never took it seriously until I was forcefully gifted an orchid. With the added ability to move them around in pots. "dateModified": "2023-02-16" If its potted, move it to a better draining pot. Have a few questions regarding re-potting my indoor and very overgrown 25 yr. old plant. "name": "Plant Addicts", Agapanthus are brilliant plants for summer borders, offering structure, drama, elegance and grace. They go fully dormant during this time, so they can be left alone outside in the cold. For hotter climates, partial shade is advised for anAgapanthusplant, rather than full sun. Use an organic, all-purpose formula at half strength to infuse a steady supply of nutrients in the soil. Another thing to consider is the roots if you have planted your agapanthus in a large pot, you will likely get lots of leaves and very few flowers, while restricted roots in a smaller pot encourage flower formation. Overwatering can cause root rot, which in turn can show up as drooping and wilting leaves. If you started with a smaller pot, youll eventually have to move your plant to a larger one so it can develop properly. 2023 Gardening Know How, Future US LLC, Full 7th Floor, 130 West 42nd Street, New York, NY 10036, By Mary H. Dyer, Credentialed Garden Writer, By Bonnie L. Grant, Certified Urban Agriculturist. }, . Agapanthus don't like to be planted into pots that are too spacious as this will encourage leaf growth rather than flower production. Theres not much to do in terms of pruning or trimming other than removing the flowers that are spent at the end of the season. Here are various suggestions to help you plant your agapanthus in a pot. Sign up to get all the latest gardening tips! { Terra cotta pots are porous, meaning they have thousands of tiny holes that absorb and funnel out water. The Agapanthus plant is of two major types: deciduous and evergreens. You can also leave the planter outside in the full sun for a day or so to kill any pathogens naturally. Always use gloves and proper protective gear when handling, pruning, or trimming agapanthus. Be patient. As common as it is, the sap from agapanthus will cause skin irritation and allergic reactions, especially for those that are sensitive. You can combine other flora such as Lavender, Salvias, and Echinaceas with your Agapanthus to achieve a wholesome aesthetic experience. Am an amateur at this and would most appreciate any help you could give me. Learn more about this plant here. It needs to be higher in phosphorus than nitrogen or potassium. Low growing alyssum or dianthus look magical along the border. Agapanthus requires full, direct sunlight for at least 8 hours a day for the biggest and best blooms. First, use a 70% rubbing alcohol solution and disinfect the entire thing. Now you know how to plant agapanthus flowers in containers, Can my Agapanthus get some love? If your agapanthus are in pots, feed with a high potassium fertiliser, such as comfrey liquid from April until August. Learn more here. However, theres a fine line between once a week and not enough. Agapanthus need to be consistently moist between April and September. The deciduous types such as Agapanthus Aberdeen are fully hardy and can be grown in containers or borders. If planting in the open ground, moist, well-drained soil is ideal. You could leave some seedheads on established plants for their architectural look. Join now and start creating your dream garden! Mostly in blue, but white varieties are pretty standard. In warmer climates, a potted agapanthus can stay outdoors in the winter; however, make sure the container is weather resistant and wont crack during a hard freeze. Avoid watering the plants from above, and instead water directly against the soil. Its other names are African Blue Lily and African Lily. The firm Agapanthus comes in different shades. The entire stalk is good to remove as it wont regrow another flower. The evergreen types such as Agapanthus Africanus are not fully hardy and are best-given winter protection in cold areas. Note that if you overdo it, you may have some variation in the number of blooms it produces yearly. This plant is tolerant of short periods of drought, so missing a day or so of water wont harm it. Prepare the planting area well by digging in Yates Dynamic Lifter Soil Improver & Plant Fertiliser . As the name implies, the Agapanthus serves as a symbol of love for many. Deciduous strains are hardier than their evergreen counterparts, so they dont need as much attention and care during the winter. The area should be covered in mulch until any remaining roots have died off, and then the soil can be tilled and used again. Seeds self-sown around the base of the plant may develop flowers that are a different colour to the parent plant. A sunny spot in your home next to a window works. Knowledge is key to overcoming obstacles in the garden, and we are here to help. If its wet, its good. Another strategy you might employ to pick companion plants for agapanthus is to focus on color. This plant comes in small containers when purchased from the garden center, and you can emulate it at home by planting it in an identical environment. New plants will need at least 1 year before they develop shoots and flowers. They can be planted directly in the ground or in potted plants. Get more inspiration for displaying your flowers with our flower arranging videos: For Order Enquiries & Customer Services Monday to Friday 9:00 - 17:00, 2023 Sarah Raven. Check the roots and replant any healthy looking sections in fresh compost.Underwatering can also cause drooping, check the soil by sticking your finger in it to gauge how damp it feels. Take note of how deep the roots are, how wide the potter is, and how deep its planted. Poor dry soil needs the addition of plenty of organic matter and slow-release fertiliser. Where to grow agapanthus. As plants that thrive in the sun, Agapanthus require at least 6-8 hours of sun each day. The evergreen types are tender in temperatures below 20F, but the deciduous types are surprisingly hardy. To create additional collections, you must be a paid member of our site. If you have too much nitrogen, only the green foliage will develop. Its OK if the roots touch the edges as agapanthus likes being somewhat root-bound and constricted. This will help reduce the risk of bacterial or fungal infections. There should be multiple drain holes, not a single one because it can get clogged and waterlog your planter. To protect the plant from the cold, enclose the root zone with a heavy mulch. Deciduous agapanthus in the garden should be protected with a good mulch of straw or horticultural fleece. As you can see, it varies depending on where you live and your hardiness zone. Learn more here. Ensure that your agapanthus plants are fully protected from the cold (though deciduous types can withstand 10C to 15 once established). They grow well in temperate regions and can withstand heat and drought conditions. Those tall, purple and blue flowers. Grow agapanthus from seed to glowering plant in 13 months.Become a better gardener, Subscribe: http://www.youtube.com/Gardenfundamentals1?sub_confirmation=1Share with a friend: https://youtu.be/psf3u4ozl1M-----------------------Free Stuff:Free Garden eBook: 24 1/2 Garden Design Ideas:http://www.gardenfundamentals.com/24-1-2-garden-design-ideas/-----------------------My Books:Garden Myths:http://www.gardenmyths.com/garden-myths-book-1/Building Natural Ponds:http://www.buildingnaturalponds.com/Soil Science for Gardenershttps://www.gardenfundamentals.com/soil-science/------------------------Free Resources:Garden Fundamentals Blog - lots of gardening information:http://www.gardenfundamentals.com/Garden Fundamentals Facebook Group:https://www.facebook.com/groups/GardenFundamentals/My Garden Myths Blog:http://www.gardenmyths.com/Building Natural Ponds Facebook Group:https://www.facebook.com/groups/buildingnaturalponds/-----------------------Recommended PlaylistsSeed Germination - Everything you need to know:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dirz0WIMQi0\u0026list=PLq7hmpP9i05Ska3k7gaBCvNCT9gN_tYajGarden Myths:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8tH7Q945gKU\u0026list=PLq7hmpP9i05Sly9y2s-Hj7Fn-ArqKsguQ -----------------------Agapanthus - From Seed to Flower in One Year How to Grow Them FastList of Credits:Images:All slides and videos belong to GardenFundamentals.com or are public domain images, except for the following: Divide and propagate in the fall, as this gives your agapanthus plenty of time to develop firm roots for the winter. So this is a balancing act. This perennial can reach 5 feet (1.5 m.) tall, depending on variety, and looks most attractive grown in masses of color. Learn more in this article so you can enjoy an endless supply of these flowers. "datePublished": "2022-06-29", Easy to grow, pest and disease free, this African Lily is quite vigorous and grows up to 8-18 in. Agapanthus has a toxic sap which can irritate skin. Agapanthus tolerates temperatures from +10 to +28 C. For good and vigorous growth, strong stems, lush color, and leaves, the plant requires organic fertilizers, which are introduced into the soil 2 - 3 times a week until the period of seed maturation. Yellowing leaves is a normal part of the Agapanthus cycle to turn yellow and die back in autumn and winter. With the dominant colors being purple and blue, agapanthus goes well with chrysanthemums, fuchsias, and pansies. Although plants flower well in pots if the roots are constricted, they should not be allowed to become completely root bound and should be split and replanted in fresh compost if the roots become too congested.. Agapanthus can be planted in pots, provided that the conditions are optimal. Depending on your hardiness zone, cultivar, and your local climate, youll have to adjust as needed. No need to worry about if a location is perfect or not- you can tell just by how the plant reacts and relocate it accordingly as needed. Thus, theyre done growing what they can for the winter. Dont choose only by color because if its the wrong zone, it wont be so hot. Growing strawberries. Author Jessica Mercer - Published 6-29-2022. Water the pot when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch, which is approximately once a week during the growing season. "@type": "Article", 2. Supplement with more phosphate if this is the case. Neem oil spray can be used to cut down on gray mold, which generally occurs when theres too much moisture. Doesn't get any easier than that! How To Plant Agapanthus. For those in a higher hardiness zone, such as 9 or 10, youll want to limit the amount of sunlight to just 6 hours. Sure, the smaller pots are cheaper. I wont go into detail because after sowing the seeds and germination, the process is pretty much the same as transplanting. You can buy the plants in garden centres during the spring and summer - opt for those with green, healthy looking foliage and reject anything that looks lack lustre or wilted. Agapanthus has strappy green leaves that add texture to beds, borders, and containers. Be careful not to overdo it, as overfertilization causes leggy growth. plant? You can sneak away with just 6 hours, but give it 8 for those long green stems and gorgeous purple petals. Flowers should be fed every week or two weeks during the growing season. There are large and dwarf varieties of agapanthus, and differing flower colours from purple to white. Agapanthus 'Bressingham Blue' (African Lily), Agapanthus 'Northern Star' (African Lily), Agapanthus Headbourne Hybrids (African Lily), Agapanthus orientalis 'Albus' (African Lily), A Lovely Border Idea with Achillea, Agapanthus and Grasses, Want Garden Inspiration?