Alstroemeria, commonly known as Peruvian lily or lily of the Incas, is a beautiful and vibrant perennial that produces colourful, trumpet-shaped flowers. Follow this planting guide to ensure successful establishment and flourishing growth of your Alstroemeria plants.

 

Selecting the Planting Site

Sunlight Requirements: Plant Alstroemeria in a location that receives full sun to partial shade. They prefer at least 6 hours of sunlight daily.

Soil Conditions: Choose well-drained, fertile soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH. Alstroemeria is adaptable but thrives in rich, loamy soil.

 

Planting Time

Optimal Timing: Plant Alstroemeria in the spring or Autumn. These seasons provide favourable conditions for root establishment before extreme temperatures.

 

Planting Process

Prepare the Soil: Work the soil to a depth of at least 12 inches, incorporating organic matter for improved fertility and drainage.

Spacing: Plant Alstroemeria tubers or potted plants about 12 to 18 inches apart, allowing sufficient space for their spreading habit.

Planting Depth: Set the tubers or potted plants in the ground at a depth of about 4 to 6 inches. Ensure the crown of the tuber is just below the soil surface.

 

Watering

Initial Watering: Water thoroughly after planting to settle the soil and provide moisture for root establishment.

Regular Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Alstroemeria prefers regular watering, especially during dry periods.

 

Mulching

Apply Mulch: Mulch around the plants to conserve moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature. Maintain a 2-3 inch layer of organic mulch.

Avoid Mulch Contact: Keep the mulch away from the base of the plants to prevent rot and fungal issues.

 

Fertilisation

Balanced Fertiliser: Apply a balanced, slow-release fertiliser in the spring as new growth emerges. Follow the package instructions for proper application rates.

Avoid Excessive Nitrogen: Limit high-nitrogen fertilisers to prevent excessive foliage growth at the expense of flowering.

 

Support and Staking

Staking Tall Varieties: For taller Alstroemeria varieties, consider staking to provide support for the flowering stems.

 

Pruning

Deadheading: Remove spent flowers regularly to encourage continuous blooming.

Autumn Clean Up: Trim back the foliage in late Autumn or early spring for a tidy appearance and to promote new growth.

 

Pest and Disease Management

Monitor Aphids: Keep an eye out for aphids, which can occasionally be a problem. Treat any infestations promptly.

Good Air Circulation: Plant with proper spacing to promote good air circulation and reduce the risk of fungal diseases.

 

Division

Periodic Division: Every 2-3 years, consider dividing mature Alstroemeria clumps to rejuvenate the plants. Spring is the ideal time for division.

Replanting: Lift the clumps, divide them, and replant healthy sections in well-prepared soil.

Congratulations on planting Alstroemeria in your garden! To ensure the continued health and vitality of your Peruvian lilies, follow this aftercare guide:

 

Watering

Established Plants: Alstroemeria is relatively drought-tolerant once established. Water deeply during dry periods, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.

Avoid Waterlogged Soil: Ensure well-drained soil to prevent water logging, as Alstroemeria prefers slightly moist but not waterlogged conditions.

 

Mulching

Maintain Mulch: Keep a 2-3 inch layer of organic mulch around the plants to conserve soil moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature.

Mulch Renewal: Periodically replenish the mulch to keep it effective. Maintain a small gap around the base of the plant to prevent moisture-related issues.

 

Fertilisation

Balanced Fertilisation: Apply a balanced, slow-release fertiliser in the spring as new growth emerges. Follow the package instructions for proper application rates.

Avoid Excessive Nitrogen: Limit high-nitrogen fertilisers to prevent excessive foliage growth at the expense of flowering.

 

Support and Staking

Staking Tall Varieties: If you planted taller Alstroemeria varieties, consider staking to provide support for the flowering stems.

 

Pruning

Regular Deadheading: Remove spent flowers regularly to encourage continuous blooming.

Autumn Clean up: Trim back the foliage in late Autumn= or early spring for a tidy appearance and to promote new growth.

 

Pest and Disease Management

Monitor Aphids: Keep an eye out for aphids, which can occasionally be a problem. Treat any infestations promptly.

Good Air Circulation: Ensure proper spacing between plants to promote good air circulation and reduce the risk of fungal diseases.

 

Winter Care

Mulching in Winter: In colder climates, apply an extra layer of mulch in late Autumn to provide insulation and protect the plant’s roots from winter extremes.

Minimal Pruning: Limit pruning in late Autumn to avoid stimulating new growth that may be susceptible to winter damage.

 

Division

Periodic Division: Every 2-3 years, consider dividing mature Alstroemeria clumps to rejuvenate the plants. Spring is the ideal time for division.

Replanting: Lift the clumps, divide them, and replant healthy sections in well-prepared soil.

 

Adaptation

Recognise Plant’s Resilience: Alstroemeria is generally resilient, but it may respond differently to various conditions. Adapt care practices accordingly and be prepared to address any adverse effects.

We appreciate your trust in choosing Alstroemeria plants for your garden. While we strive to provide resilient and healthy plants, it’s important to acknowledge that certain factors, especially extreme weather conditions, are beyond our control. Events such as severe frost, prolonged heatwaves, high winds, or exceptionally heavy rainfall can impact the health of your Alstroemeria.

 

Our Advice

Weather Monitoring: Stay vigilant and regularly monitor local weather forecasts, especially during periods of extreme weather.

Protective Measures: Consider implementing protective measures during extreme conditions, such as providing temporary shading during intense heat or covering plants during unexpected frost.

Aftermath Assessment: Following extreme weather events, assess the condition of your Alstroemeria plants. If damage occurs, follow appropriate care steps, including pruning damaged parts and adjusting watering routines.

 

Limitations

Natural Variables: Alstroemeria, like any living organism, is influenced by natural variables. Extreme weather events are inherent risks that may impact plant health despite best care practices.

No Guarantee: Due to the unpredictable nature of extreme weather, we cannot guarantee the outcome of your Alstroemeria’s response to such conditions. Plants may exhibit stress or damage beyond our control.

 

Customer Responsibility

Preventive Measures: We encourage you to take proactive measures based on weather forecasts and to implement protective strategies to minimise potential harm during extreme weather.

Adaptation: Recognise that Alstroemeria, while resilient, may respond differently to various weather conditions. Adapt care practices accordingly and be prepared to address any adverse effects.

 

Contact Us

If you have specific concerns or questions related to extreme weather impacts on your Alstroemeria, please don’t hesitate to reach out. Our team is here to offer guidance and support within the scope of our expertise.

 

Email: info@proctorsnursery.co.uk

 

Note: This disclaimer serves to acknowledge the unpredictability of extreme weather events and the associated risks to Alstroemeria plants. Your understanding, proactive care, and prompt communication are key to ensuring the well-being of your garden.