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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.).
The vibrant, colorful blooms of African Corn Lily (Ixia species) are a delightful addition to any garden While these tender bulbs are not difficult to grow, they do require transplanting every few years as they become overcrowded Transplanting African Corn Lily allows you to propagate your plants while refreshing them with new soil and space to thrive.
Transplanting sounds intimidating, but have no fear! With proper planning and care, relocating African Corn Lily is straightforward. This comprehensive guide covers when and how to transplant these exotic beauties for ongoing success. Let’s dig in!
An Overview of African Corn Lily
Before jumping into transplanting, let’s briefly overview this eye-catching plant. African Corn Lily is a tender bulb native to South Africa, where it grows in grassy slopes
The plants sprout from underground corms to produce sword-shaped leaves and cheerful spring blooms on tall stems. Flower colors include orange, pink, red, yellow, and white.
Thanks to its manageable size and vibrant flowers, African Corn Lily makes an excellent container plant. It also thrives in garden beds and borders. Providing the right care will keep your plants healthy and flowering for years.
When to Transplant African Corn Lily
To minimize stress on the plants, it’s best to transplant African Corn Lily in early spring or fall when temperatures are mild. The weather conditions during these times will be easiest for the bulbs to adapt to their new location.
Avoid transplanting in summer when hot weather can shock the plants. Likewise, steer clear of winter’s colder temperatures that can damage the tender bulbs.
Plan to relocate plants every 2-3 years before they become overcrowded. This prevents nutrients in the soil from becoming depleted while giving bulbs adequate space to reach their full size.
Gather Needed Supplies
Before you start digging, ensure you have all the necessary supplies on hand for transplanting:
- Sharp shovel, trowel, or garden fork
- Gardening gloves
- Container for transporting plants
- Compost, peat moss, or other soil amendments
- New potting soil or garden soil
- Watering can
- Mulch
Having tools and materials ready makes the process smoother from start to finish.
Select a New Planting Site
Your African Corn Lily will appreciate its new home, so take time to choose an ideal planting site. The location should provide:
- Full sun to partial shade exposure
- Well-draining soil
- Adequate space for growth and airflow
- Protection from strong winds
Amend dense garden soil with compost or peat moss to improve drainage before planting.
Dig Up Established Plants
Now comes the fun part – gently digging up your African Corn Lily bulbs. Follow these steps:
- Water plants 1-2 days before digging them up.
- Carefully loosen soil around bulbs with a shovel or fork.
- Lift bulbs gently, keeping as much of the root ball intact as possible.
Handle bulbs with care to avoid damaging the tender roots and limit stress.
Prepare New Planting Holes
African Corn Lily will be happiest with fresh soil and space to stretch out. Here’s how to prep the new planting site:
- Dig holes slightly wider and deeper than the bulb’s root balls.
- Space holes 12-18 inches apart to prevent crowding.
- Mix compost or peat moss into soil in the holes to improve drainage.
- Gently remove any weeds or debris.
- Lightly water the holes before planting bulbs.
Taking time to prepare the right planting holes gets your bulbs off to the best start.
Transplant Bulbs to New Site
Now it’s finally time to put your African Corn Lily bulbs into their new homes! Follow these steps:
- Place each bulb in a prepared hole at the same depth it was originally planted.
- Carefully backfill holes with soil, firming it gently around bulbs.
- Thoroughly water transplanted bulbs to settle soil and minimize stress.
- Consider mixing a balanced fertilizer into the bottom of holes to nourish plants.
- Add a 2-3 inch layer of mulch around plants to retain moisture.
And with that, your bulbs are relocated and ready to grow in their fresh soil!
Provide Aftercare
Transplanting can be taxing for plants, so proper aftercare is crucial. Be sure to:
- Water plants regularly until they become established.
- Apply fertilizer every 4-6 weeks to nourish bulb growth.
- Monitor for pests or diseases and address any issues promptly.
- Remove spent blooms to encourage additional flowering.
With attentive aftercare, your African Corn Lily will quickly bounce back and reward you with an abundance of cheerful blooms!
Enjoy Your Transplanted Flowers
With proper planning and gentle care, transplanting African Corn Lily doesn’t have to be a daunting task. Taking time to select an ideal site, dig bulbs carefully, and provide attentive aftercare will ensure your plants continue thriving in their new location.
Before long, you’ll have vibrant flowers gracing your garden once again. Dividing African Corn Lily through transplanting allows you to propagate your collection while rejuvenating the plants with fresh soil and breathing room.
Follow the steps in this guide for transplanting success with African Corn Lily bulbs. You’ll enjoy these exotic beauties brightening your outdoor space for years to come!
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.
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.
How to plant a pot of Ixia (corn lily)
FAQ
When to plant African corn lily bulbs?
Do Ixia bulbs multiply?
Where is the best place to plant Ixia?
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 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.
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 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.