Crocosmia ‘Okavango’

Description

Crocosmia ‘Okavango’ is a striking perennial that brings stunning orange and peach flowers to your garden. Known for its arching, branched spikes and sword-like green leaves, it thrives in full sun or partial shade, producing long-lasting blooms from July to October. Follow this planting and care guide to ensure your Crocosmia ‘Okavango’ flourishes throughout the growing season.

PLANTING and AFTERCARE GUIDE

Best Planting Time

• Spring: The ideal time to plant Crocosmia ‘Okavango’ is during the spring, once the soil has warmed up. This allows the plant to establish strong roots before the blooming season, ensuring vibrant flowers and healthy growth in the summer.
• Autumn: Alternatively, you can plant in early autumn. This provides the plant with time to settle in before the cooler months, helping it establish itself for the following spring’s growth.

Site Selection

• Sunlight: Crocosmia ‘Okavango’ thrives in full sun but can tolerate partial shade. Select a location that receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day to promote strong growth and an abundance of flowers.
• Soil: Well-drained, moist soil is essential for Crocosmia ‘Okavango’. The plant does not tolerate waterlogged conditions, so ensure that the soil is rich in organic matter and drains effectively to prevent root rot.

Planting Instructions

1. Prepare the Planting Hole: Dig a hole that is approximately twice the width and the same depth as the root ball. This allows the roots of Crocosmia ‘Okavango’ plenty of room to grow and spread.
2. Soil Preparation: Mix in compost or organic matter to improve soil fertility and drainage. Crocosmia ‘Okavango’ benefits from nutrient-rich soil that supports robust growth and vibrant blooms.
3. Planting: Place the plant into the hole, ensuring that the top of the root ball is level with the surrounding soil. Fill in the hole with soil, firming it gently to eliminate any air pockets.
4. Watering After Planting: Water generously after planting to help settle the soil around the roots. This encourages root establishment and ensures the plant has adequate moisture as it begins to grow.

Watering Requirements

• Growing Season: Crocosmia ‘Okavango’ prefers moderate moisture. Water regularly during dry spells, ensuring the soil is moist but not waterlogged. Allow the soil to dry out slightly between watering sessions to prevent root rot.
• Dormant Season: In the dormant season, reduce watering. Only water Crocosmia ‘Okavango’ if the soil becomes excessively dry, as the plant needs minimal moisture while it is not actively growing.

Feeding

• Spring: Apply a balanced, slow-release fertiliser in early spring to give Crocosmia ‘Okavango’ a strong start to the growing season. This supports healthy growth and encourages vibrant flowering throughout the summer.
• Mid-Summer: A light feed in mid-summer can help maintain growth and encourage continued flowering. Be cautious not to overfeed, as this can lead to excessive foliage growth at the expense of blooms.

Pruning

• Deadheading: Regularly deadhead your Crocosmia ‘Okavango’ by removing spent flowers. This practice helps prolong the blooming period, keeps the plant tidy, and encourages more flower production.
• Autumn Pruning: After the last flowers have faded, trim back the plant to ground level in autumn. This prepares it for winter dormancy and ensures that it regrows vigorously the following season.

Mulching

• Spring: Apply a layer of mulch around the base of Crocosmia ‘Okavango’ in spring to retain moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature. Organic materials like compost or bark chips work best for this purpose.
• Winter: In colder months, add a thicker layer of mulch around the plant to protect the roots from freezing temperatures and prevent frost damage.

Supporting the Plant

• Staking: Crocosmia ‘Okavango’ can grow tall, so staking may be necessary in windy or exposed areas. Use plant supports to keep the flower spikes upright and prevent damage during strong winds.

Final Tips for Growing

Crocosmia ‘Okavango’ is a hardy perennial that adds vibrant color and structure to any garden. By planting it in full sun or partial shade with well-drained, moist soil, and following these care guidelines, you’ll enjoy its stunning orange and peach blooms from July through October. It is an excellent choice for attracting pollinators and creating a striking focal point in your garden.

RHS Details

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