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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.).
With their vibrant, cheery blooms held aloft on slender stalks African corn lily flowers add welcome height and color to garden beds. But occasionally these delicate-looking beauties start leaning or even falling over entirely. If your upright African corn lilies have taken a tumble don’t despair! In many cases the issue can be corrected with a few simple troubleshooting and care adjustments.
Common Causes of Falling African Corn Lily Flowers
Before you can fix the problem it helps to understand what underlying factors typically cause African corn lily flowers to flop over. Here are some of the most common reasons
- Overwatering that leads to soggy, unstable soil
- Insufficient anchorage from short, underdeveloped roots
- Weak or damaged stems unable to support flower weight
- Excessive leaning toward sunlight in shady locations
- Weight of flowers too heavy for slender stalks
- Environmental factors like wind, rain, or storms
- Old, declining plants with poor structural integrity
- Root or stem diseases causing tissue damage
- Pest infestations destabilizing the plant
- Physical damage from gardening activities or wildlife
While sometimes falling flowers are inevitable due to old age or weather events, cultural or pest issues often play a role. Identifying the cause will guide you in the best correction strategy.
Strategically Adjusting Watering Habits
One of the most frequent reasons African corn lily blooms flop over is overly wet soil from incorrect watering. Overwatering can make roots soggy and unstable, unable to properly anchor the plant.
To fix this issue, adjust your watering habits:
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Allow the soil surface to dry out between waterings. Use your finger to test moisture.
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Water thoroughly only when the top few inches become dry. Avoid frequent shallow sprinklings.
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Improve drainage by amending soil with compost or sand if needed.
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Consider potting in fast-draining cactus mix for container-grown lilies.
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Apply water directly to soil at the base, not from overhead.
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Adjust irrigation schedules for weather and avoid waterlogging.
With careful moisture management, you can firm up roots for properly anchored, upright blooms.
Providing Staking or Support when Needed
Some varieties of African corn lily produce large, heavy flower heads atop tall, slender stems. These top-heavy blooms often require extra support to remain vertical. Providing stakes, cages, or trellises can help keep heavy blooms from flopping over.
Some options for adding support include:
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Drive sturdy plant stakes into the ground around stems.
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Install wire cages over plants to contain and prop up growth.
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Erect trellises for stems to grow through or lean against.
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Use soft plant ties to gently secure drooping stems to supports.
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Site next to fences, posts, or walls to utilize for anchorage.
Be sure any supports are installed early, before stems reach full height and flowers open. This will minimize risk of damage while providing stability.
Considering Supplemental Fertilization
If African corn lily roots seem stunted or weak, insufficient nutrients could be limiting their growth and strength. Applying a balanced fertilizer can help develop a robust root system for anchoring the plant.
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Use African violet or blossom-boosting fertilizers according to label directions.
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Fertilize in spring as growth begins and again midsummer. Avoid late fertilizing.
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Apply just before watering so nutrients soak into the soil.
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Excess fertilizer can burn roots, so never overdo it.
With a nourished root system, your corn lilies will have the strong foundation needed for staying upright.
Inspecting and Treating Pest or Disease Problems
Sometimes unseen root or stem disorders are causing internal damage and weakness. Carefully inspect plants and watch for signs of pest infestations or disease infection.
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Check for tiny insects like aphids, thrips, or beetle larvae.
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Monitor for discolored, spotted, or distorted foliage which can indicate disease.
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Treat any pests or diseases discovered promptly to limit damage.
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Remove and destroy severely affected plants to prevent spread.
Eradicating hidden invaders will restore plant vigor for straighter, stronger African corn lily blooms.
Providing Optimal Sun Exposure
Insufficient sunlight can also cause African corn lilies to flop over as they reach toward the light source. For best results, site them where they’ll receive:
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At least 6 hours of direct sun daily, ideally morning light.
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Protection from hot afternoon sun in warmer climates.
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Light dappled shade if unable to provide sufficient sun exposure.
Positioning plants properly reduces the need to lean, supporting upright growth habit. Rotate potted corn lilies regularly for even sun distribution.
Exercising Care When Handling Floppy Plants
When working around leaning African corn lilies, take care not to put extra strain on weak stems or roots. This easily causes more damage, resulting in floppier plants.
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Avoid moving or transplanting unstable plants unless absolutely necessary.
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Gently tie up or support drooping stems before working around the plant.
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Be extremely careful and slow when weeding, pruning or digging nearby.
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Minimize handling of foliage or flowers which adds extra weight.
With a little extra caution and TLC, you can prevent further harm to struggling corn lilies.
By identifying and addressing the factors causing your African corn lily flowers to lose their footing, you can restore their beautiful upright form. Pay close attention to watering, nutrition, sunlight, and pest control for the healthiest, sturdiest plants. Then supplement with support methods as needed for flowers that proudly stand tall.
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 do I keep my lily plants from falling over?
How to stop flowers from falling over?
Why does my lily fall over?
Why is my corn plant falling over?
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.
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.
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.