Alstroemeria Summer Paradise Collection ‘Summer Heat’

Description

The Alstroemeria Summer Paradise Collection ‘Summer Heat’ is a stunning perennial known for its bright-red blooms with a yellow throat. This compact and upright plant adds vibrant colour to gardens and containers, thriving with the right care. Below is a comprehensive guide to planting and caring for your Alstroemeria to ensure it flourishes.

PLANTING and AFTERCARE GUIDE

Best Planting Time

For the best results, plant Alstroemeria Summer Paradise Collection ‘Summer Heat’ during spring or early autumn. These times allow the roots to establish before the blooming season, ensuring a healthy and strong plant. Planting in warmer soil also promotes robust root growth, which is essential for the plant’s longevity.

Site Selection

Alstroemeria Summer Paradise Collection ‘Summer Heat’ thrives in a sunny or partially shaded location. Choose a spot that receives at least 6 hours of sunlight per day for the best flowering performance. While the plant tolerates partial shade, full sun will encourage more prolific blooms.

• Soil Requirements: Alstroemeria Summer Paradise Collection ‘Summer Heat’ prefers well-drained soil. It’s essential to avoid waterlogged areas, as poor drainage can lead to root rot. Improve soil quality by mixing in compost or organic matter to enhance fertility and drainage.

Planting Instructions

1. Prepare the Hole: Dig a hole that is twice as wide as the root ball but no deeper. This allows the roots of your Alstroemeria to spread easily.
2. Soil Preparation: Add compost to the soil to boost nutrients and improve drainage. This plant benefits from nutrient-rich soil, promoting vigorous growth and vibrant blooms.
3. Planting: Place the plant in the prepared hole, ensuring that the top of the root ball is level with the soil surface. Backfill the hole and firm the soil gently to remove any air pockets.
4. Watering: Water thoroughly after planting to help settle the soil around the roots and to encourage strong establishment.

Watering Requirements

• During Growth: Alstroemeria Summer Paradise Collection ‘Summer Heat’ prefers consistent moisture but is also drought-tolerant once established. Water moderately during dry spells and allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings to avoid overwatering.
• Dormant Period: During dormancy, reduce watering significantly. Only water if the soil becomes overly dry to prevent unnecessary moisture stress.

Feeding

To keep Alstroemeria Summer Paradise Collection ‘Summer Heat’ blooming healthily, apply a balanced fertiliser in early spring. This gives the plant a strong start to the growing season. A mid-summer feed can also encourage continued blooming, helping the plant maintain vigour throughout the flowering season.

Pruning and Deadheading

• Deadheading: Regularly remove spent flowers to prolong the blooming period. This helps Alstroemeria Summer Paradise Collection ‘Summer Heat’ focus energy on producing new flowers rather than seeds.
• End of Season Care: In autumn, once the flowering season has ended, cut back the plant to ground level. This prepares the plant for its dormant period and encourages healthy growth for the following year.

Mulching

Apply mulch around the base of your Alstroemeria in spring. Mulching helps retain moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature. Organic mulches such as bark chips or compost work best. In winter, a layer of mulch helps protect the roots from cold temperatures, ensuring the plant’s survival through the season.

Final Tips

Alstroemeria Summer Paradise Collection ‘Summer Heat’ is ideal for gardens or containers, providing beautiful bright-red blooms from late spring until the first frosts. By choosing the right planting site, maintaining well-drained soil, and following proper care techniques, you will enjoy a long-lasting display of vibrant flowers. For best results, ensure that your Alstroemeria gets adequate sunlight and consistent care to flourish year after year.

RHS Details

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