How to Grow Alstroemerias
Alstroemeria
Alstroemerias are tuberous herbaceous perennials that flower prolifically from June to October. Plant in full sun or light shade in well-drained, fertile soil with shelter from cold winds. Pull spent stems from the base (never cut) to encourage continuous flowering. Mulch in spring and feed monthly during flowering. They take a year to establish but then reward with years of abundant blooms and excellent cut flowers.
Yearly Lifecycle
Care Essentials
Balanced liquid feed monthly during flowering. Mulch with compost in spring.
Watch For
- Slugs on young growth in spring
- Red spider mite under glass
- Generally trouble-free outdoors
Companions
Roses, Grasses, Geraniums
Pet Safety
Care Requirements
Light
Full sun or light shade
Best flowering in full sun. Tolerates light shade but produces fewer blooms. Shelter from cold winds.
Watering
Moderate, consistent moisture
Water regularly during the growing season. Avoid waterlogging which rots the tuberous roots. Reduce in winter.
Fertilizing
Monthly liquid feed during flowering
Balanced liquid fertiliser monthly from June to September. Mulch with compost in spring for soil enrichment.
Pruning
Pull, never cut, spent stems
Pull spent flower stems from the base throughout summer to encourage continuous flowering. Never use secateurs as pulling stimulates new shoots from below.
Spacing & Planting
| Plant spacing | 30 cm |
| Row spacing | 45 cm |
| Mature height | 80 cm |
| Mature spread | 50 cm |
Spreads via rhizomes to form clumps. Give them ample space to naturalize.
