When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. Here’s how it works.
If you need a colorful addition to a flower bed that gets hot afternoon sun, you might want to try growing Ixia bulbs. Pronounced Ik-see-uh, the plants are commonly called wand flowers, cornflowers, or African corn lily plants. Ixia wand flower thrives in the hottest and sunniest areas of the garden, producing attractive, sword-shaped foliage and masses of dainty, star-shaped flowers on wiry stems.
When growing Ixia bulbs, which are actually corms, you may be happily surprised to find they are shaped like chocolate kisses. Ixia plant info says to plant the corms 3 to 5 inches (8-13 cm.) deep and 3 inches (8 cm.) apart into fertile, well-draining soil. Southern gardeners should plant them in fall, while those in USDA gardening zones 4 and 5 should plant in spring. Care of wand flowers includes a heavy layer of mulch for fall planted bulbs in zones 6 and 7. A South African native, Ixia plant info indicates African corn lily plants are short-lived perennials and may perform as annuals, not returning after a hard winter. However, Ixia wand flower corms are readily available in garden centers and big box stores and are usually not expensive, so replanting is not much of a chore. Youll find it is worth the effort when the delicate and colorful blooms appear in the garden. The Ixia wand flower blooms in late spring in the south, while the colorful flowers appear in summer in northern areas. When growing Ixia bulbs, you may wish to lift them in fall and store them for the winter. In colder areas, plant wand flowers in large containers and sink them into the ground. When frost approaches, simply lift the pot and store in an area where temperatures remain at 68 to 77 degrees F. (20-25 C.). Damage to the corms starts when outdoor temperatures fall below 28 degrees F. (-2 C.).
With their delicate, colorful blooms, African corn lilies (Ixia species) bring a captivating beauty to any garden However, successfully growing these South African native bulbs requires proper planting techniques One key factor is planting the corn lily corms at the optimal depth. But how deep should these mesmerizing flowers be planted? Let’s examine the ideal African corn lily planting depth and proper techniques to help your garden flourish.
African corn lilies belong to the Iridaceae family and produce abundant blooms in spring and summer. The star-shaped flowers come in vibrant shades like white, pink, orange, yellow, and purple on thin, wiry stems above grassy, sword-shaped leaves. While they reach just 1-2 feet tall, African corn lilies make up for their petite stature with their eye-catching color.
These bulbs are not true lilies, but are called “corn lilies” because their corms resemble corn kernels. African corn lilies thrive in hot, sunny spots with well-drained soil. With the right planting depth and care, they will happily grace gardens with months of blossoms.
What is the Recommended Planting Depth?
To enable robust growth and magnificent blooming, African corn lily corms should be planted 2-3 inches deep in the soil. This depth provides the bulbs with sufficient anchorage moisture retention, and protection from frost and fluctuating temperatures.
Shallower planting less than 2 inches deep leaves bulbs susceptible to frost heaving and inadequate moisture. Conversely, planting too deeply over 3 inches can lead to poor growth and reduced flowering. The 2-3 inch zone hits the sweet spot for proper corn lily cultivation.
Step-by-Step Guide to Proper Planting Depth
Follow these simple steps to plant your African corn lily corms at the perfect depth:
-
Prepare soil by loosening and amending with compost to improve drainage. African corn lilies prefer nutrient-rich well-draining soil.
-
Dig holes or trenches 2-3 inches deep and space 4-6 inches apart to allow room for growth.
-
Place corn lily corms pointy end up in holes, with tops just below soil surface. Gently firm around corms.
-
Water thoroughly after planting. Keep soil moist, but not soaked.
-
Consider adding mulch around plants to retain moisture and reduce weeds.
-
In very cold climates, plant potted corms so they can be moved indoors for winter.
Optimal Growing Conditions
In addition to proper planting depth, provide these optimal growing conditions:
- Full sun to light shade exposure
- Average to dry soil that drains well
- Regular watering during growth and flowering
- Heat-tolerant to temperatures over 90°F
- Well-draining pots or raised beds in heavy, wet soils
Ongoing Care for Long-Term Health
Caring for your African corn lilies throughout the seasons promotes plant vigor and productivity:
-
Apply bulb fertilizer or compost in early spring.
-
Deadhead spent blooms to encourage more flowers.
-
Allow foliage to yellow after flowering before removing.
-
Dig up corms in late summer once dormant and store over winter in a cool, dry spot.
-
Replant the following spring after danger of frost has passed.
Bringing Vibrant Color to Your Garden
With their stunning multicolored flowers and graceful charm, African corn lilies deserve a spot in any sunny garden. Follow the recommended 2-3 inch planting depth and provide ideal growing conditions for success. A proper start sets your bulbs up to delight you with their cheery blossoms year after year. Give African corn lilies a try and enjoy their vibrant beauty!
Care of Ixia Wand Flowers
Care of wand flowers is simple. Keep the soil moist during periods of growth. Mulch heavily if you have cold winters and do not lift the corms. Companion plants for growing Ixia bulbs may include dianthus, Stokes aster, and spring blooming annuals.
Types of Ixia Wand Flower
Ixia wand flower blooms in a multitude of colors, depending on the cultivar planted.
- Turquoise green blooms with purple to almost black centers, called eyes, bloom on the cultivar Ixia viridiflora.
- Panorama is white with purplish red eyes, while Hogarth features cream-colored blooms with a red-purple center.
- The cultivar Marquette has yellow tips with purple black centers.
How to plant a pot of Ixia (corn lily)
FAQ
How deep do you plant Ixia bulbs?
Are African corn lilies perennials?
Where is the best place to plant Ixia?
How do you grow African corn lilies?
African corn lilies are typically grown from corms, which are small, bulb-like structures. Plant the corms in the fall or early spring, about 2 inches deep and 4 inches apart. Cover them with soil and water thoroughly. Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged, as excessive moisture can cause the corms to rot. 4. Watering and Fertilizing
Can You Grow African corn lily outside?
The African corn lily, scientifically known as Ixia, is a captivating plant that adds vibrancy and charm to any garden or indoor space. If you’re growing the plant outdoors, dig up the corms in the fall before the first frost and store them in a cool, dry place.
How do you care for African corn lilies?
African corn lilies require regular watering, especially during the growing season. Water the plant deeply but infrequently, allowing the top inch of soil to dry out before watering again. Fertilize the plant every two weeks with a balanced liquid fertilizer, diluted to half strength. Stop fertilizing in the fall when the plant goes dormant. 5.
What is the best soil for African corn lilies?
The ideal soil for African corn lilies is well-draining and slightly acidic, with a pH between 6.0 and 6.5. If your soil is too alkaline, consider amending it with sulfur or aluminum sulfate to lower the pH. Adding organic matter, such as compost or well-rotted manure, will improve the soil’s fertility and drainage.