Growing Watsonia Corms: Tips and Tricks for a Beautiful Garden

Are you looking to add some color to your garden? Consider growing watsonia corms! These beautiful flowers are easy to cultivate and can bring a burst of vibrant colors to any outdoor space. In this article, we will provide you with tips and tricks on how to grow healthy watsonia corms that will bloom year after year.

What are Watsonia Corms?

Watsonia corms are perennials that belong to the iris family. They are native to South Africa but are now commonly grown all over the world. The plant produces tall spikes of trumpet-shaped flowers that come in shades of pink, orange, red, and white. Watsonia corms are known for their hardiness and low maintenance, making them a popular choice for both novice and experienced gardeners.

Choosing the Right Spot

When choosing a spot to plant your watsonia corms, keep in mind that they require full sun to flourish. Pick a location that receives at least six hours of direct sunlight each day. Additionally, make sure the soil is well-draining, as watsonia corms do not like wet feet. If you have heavy clay soil, amend it with compost or sand to improve drainage.

Planting Watsonia Corms

The best time to plant watsonia corms is in the fall, before the first frost. Start by preparing the soil by loosening it to a depth of about 8 inches. Then, dig a hole that's about twice the size of the corm. Place the corm in the hole with the pointed end facing up and cover it with soil. Water thoroughly.

If you live in an area with mild winters, you can also plant watsonia corms in the spring. However, keep in mind that the blooms may not be as strong as those planted in the fall.

Caring for Watsonia Corms

Once planted, watsonia corms require minimal care. Water them deeply once a week or whenever the soil feels dry to the touch. Fertilize with a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season (spring to early summer). Avoid using high-nitrogen fertilizers, as they can promote foliage growth instead of flowers.

After the blooms fade, deadhead the spent flowers to encourage more blooms. Once the flowers have finished blooming for the season, you can cut back the foliage to about 3-4 inches above ground level. This helps the plant conserve energy for the next growing season.

Dividing Watsonia Corms

Watsonia corms can become crowded over time, which can lead to reduced blooms. To prevent this from happening, divide the corms every three to four years. The best time to do so is in the fall, after the foliage has died back. Dig up the corms and gently separate them, making sure each new corm has some roots attached. Replant them in a new location or amend the existing soil with compost before replanting them in the same spot.

In conclusion, growing watsonia corms can be a rewarding experience for any gardener. With the right growing conditions and care, these beautiful flowers can bring color and vibrancy to your garden for years to come. So why not give them a try?

A close-up of a pink watsonia corm

growing watsonia corms, gardening, flowers, perennials, iris family