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| Agapanthus | Common name; African Lily |
In the UKthis specie is a half hardy hardy perennial,and requires a sheltered location with some winter protection, particularly in northern parts.
This strap leafed evergreen grows to around 700mm (28") high bearing 50-70mm (2"-3") spherical umbels of flowers in July.
The seed heads can be dried for winter decoration.
Week 12; Sow seed in pots/trays of seed compost, and maintain a minimum temperature of 13°C (55°F)
Germination should take around 3-4 weeks.
Week 18; If large enough to handle, prick out the seedlings into 70mm (3”) pots of J. Innes No1 (or similar) then later into 150mm (6”) pots containing J.Innes No2 (or similar).
Grow plants on in a cold frame during summer
n.b. seedlings may take two or three years to reach flowering size.
Week 17; If weather conditions allow, plant out the crowns 50mm (2”) deep and 500mm (18”) apart in a fertile, well-drained soil.
Keep well watered during growing season, and cut faded stems down to ground level after flowering.
Week 20; Divide and replant in April/May if conditions allow.
Week 40; In exposed areas protect the crowns with a layer of bracken, straw or cloches.
Week 45; Move young plants into a frost-free greenhouse or cold frame and plant out the following spring when danger of frost is over.
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