Ixia (Ixia spp.) is a beautiful spring-flowering plant belonging to the iris family, boasting star-shaped flowers in a range of colours including pink, red, white, blue and purple. It’s native to South Africa, where it grows in the wild on rocky hillsides and in grasslands. A perennial plant, ixia flowers come back year after year.
Ixia has a few other common names, including African corn lily, wand flower, ixi and cornflag. It has traditionally been associated with some customs and folklore in South Africa, where it’s believed to bring good luck and happiness. In UK gardens its bright, colourful blooms and sword-shaped leaves make it a popular choice for those looking for something a little different. Plus, flowering from May to June, it helps to bridge the gap between spring- and summer-flowering bulbs.
African corn lilies, also known as ixia, are absolutely gorgeous flowering bulbs that originate from South Africa. With their vibrant colors and unique funnel shape, these blooms make a stunning addition to any garden. However, after some time, your African corn lily may outgrow its pot and need repotting for optimal growth and performance.
Repotting African corn lily allows more room for the roots and bulbs to spread out, enhances drainage, and provides fresh nutrient-rich soil. Done at the right time, repotting revitalizes growth and leads to a healthier, more vigorous plant.
In this comprehensive guide, we will walk you through the entire process of repotting your African corn lily successfully.
When to Repot African Corn Lily
Timing is crucial when it comes to repotting plants For African corn lily, the best time is after flowering in late spring or early summer
Repotting is best done when the plant is entering a phase of active growth. This reduces transplant shock and allows the plant to quickly establish itself in its new container.
Signs that your African corn lily needs repotting
- Bulbs are crowded or pushing out of drainage holes
- Growth seems stunted
- Leaves look yellow and undersized
- Poor flowering or no new blooms
Avoid repotting when the plant is flowering or dormant in winter, This can cause unnecessary stress,
Supplies Needed for Repotting African Corn Lily
Before starting the repotting process, assemble the following supplies:
- African corn lily bulbs or plant clump
- Container 2 to 4 inches larger than the current pot
- Well-draining potting mix suitable for bulbs
- Gardening gloves
- Small shovel or trowel
- Pruning shears (cleaned with alcohol)
- Stakes or plant support (optional)
A porous potting mix formulated for bulbs is ideal, as it resists compaction and provides drainage.
Step-by-Step Guide to Repotting African Corn Lily
Follow these simple steps for successfully repotting your African corn lily:
1. Water the Plant Well in Advance
A day before repotting, deeply water the African corn lily. This makes removing the root ball easier and minimizes damage.
2. Prepare the New Container
Select a pot that is 2 to 4 inches larger than the current one. Make sure it has drainage holes at the bottom.
You can place gravel, small stones, or broken pieces of pottery in the bottom of the new container to further improve drainage.
3. Remove the Plant from Current Pot
Slide a trowel or small shovel down the inside edges of the pot to loosen the roots. Gently ease out the African corn lily and tease apart any circling roots.
Inspect the bulbs and roots. Remove dead, diseased, or damaged parts using cleaned pruning shears.
4. Divide the Clumps
African corn lilies tend to grow in clumps. Dig up the clumps and separate them, replanting individual bulbs for better growth.
This division rejuvenates the plant by reducing crowding and competition for nutrients.
5. Add Fresh Potting Mix
Fill the new container about halfway with the fresh potting mix prepared for bulbs.
Make a mound shaped like a cone to accommodate the bulb roots.
6. Plant the Bulbs
Place the African corn lily bulbs over the mound, spreading out the roots. Cover the roots completely with more potting mix.
Leave about 1/2 inch between the top of the potting mix and the container’s rim. This leaves space for watering.
7. Water Thoroughly After Repotting
Give the freshly repotted African corn lily a thorough watering. This removes air pockets and settles the soil.
Let excess water drain out the holes before returning the pot to its designated spot.
8. Provide Aftercare
Allow the African corn lily about 2 weeks to recover from repotting. Keep it in partial sun and water when the top inch of soil is dry.
Staking tall varieties provides support and prevents damage to the thin stems. Apply balanced fertilizer every 2-3 weeks during spring and summer.
With proper aftercare, your African corn lily will quickly bounce back and reward you with vigorous growth and spectacular blooms!
Tips for Repotting African Corn Lily
Follow these useful tips for successful, low-stress repotting of African corn lily:
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Sterilize pots and tools with a diluted bleach solution to prevent disease transmission.
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Avoid repotting in extremely hot weather which can scorch tender roots and leaves.
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Water lightly for a few weeks until the plant adapts to its new pot.
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Place in partial sun away from direct afternoon heat after repotting.
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Apply seaweed fertilizer to reduce transplant shock and promote establishment.
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Group pots together to provide support against winds. Stake tall varieties if needed.
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Propagate African corn lily by dividing old, overcrowded clumps into separate bulbs.
Common Problems When Repotting African Corn Lily
Here are some common repotting problems and how to avoid them:
Damaged roots or bulbs: Carefully dig up and divide bulbs. Handle gently to avoid bruising or cutting into bulbs.
Transplant shock: Repot in spring or early summer during active growth phases. Provide shade and limit watering until established.
Root rot: Ensure pot has drainage holes. Amend soil with perlite or sand to improve drainage. Allow soil to dry out between waterings.
Drooping leaves: Give partial sun after repotting and water when top inch of soil is dry. Apply diluted fertilizer to aid recovery.
No new growth: This indicates root damage. Examine roots and repot in fresh soil if needed. Water adequately but avoid saturated soil.
Repotting African corn lily correctly helps manage crowded bulbs, prevent diseases, and stimulate robust growth.
By carefully dividing, replanting, and providing proper aftercare, your African corn lily will flourish and brighten your garden with exotic blooms year after year.
Time the repotting for spring or early summer. Use an appropriate potting mix, divide and space out bulbs, and water thoroughly after transplanting. With a little care, you can enjoy a rejuvenated African corn lily plant.
How to propagate ixia
As a bulbous perennial, ixia naturally clumps up, and so can be propagated by division. The easiest time to do this is in autumn, when you dig the bulbs up for winter storage. Simply separate the bulbs and replant as new clumps in spring.
In general, ixias are not known to be prone to any major diseases. The young foliage may be nibbled by slugs and snails, so use preventative measures if necessary.
How to care for ixia
Ixia requires minimal care once established. Water the plants regularly during the growing season but be careful not to overwater as this can cause the bulbs to rot. Ixia doesn’t require regular pruning.
As ixia bulbs are not frost hardy, lift them from the ground in autumn to store over winter. Carefully dig up the bulbs, taking care not to damage them. Shake off any excess soil and allow the bulbs to dry in a well-ventilated area for a day or two. Once dry, remove any remaining foliage or debris, and then store the bulbs in a cool, dry place, such as a paper bag or a mesh bag, to prevent them from rotting or drying out. Then simply replant them after all risk of frost has passed, in spring.
How to plant a pot of Ixia (corn lily)
FAQ
When to plant African corn lily bulbs?
Do Ixia bulbs multiply?
Can you grow Ixia in pots?
How long does it take for Ixia to bloom?
How to propagate African corn lily?
The propagation of this plant is also done through seeds; however, it might take three years or more for them to bloom. The Ixia flower seeds should be covered with soil once the last spring frost has passed. The African corn lily also propagates naturally through insects and bees.
What is an African corn lily?
The African corn lily, scientifically known as Ixia, is a captivating plant that adds vibrancy and charm to any garden or indoor space. With its striking flowers and easy-care nature, it’s a popular choice among gardening enthusiasts.
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.