From my perspective as a Nerine bowdenii bulb, I am not a seed, but a complete, dormant plant packed with energy. My existence is a cycle of growth and rest. I am typically purchased and planted while I am dormant, which for me is in the late summer to early fall. This period of stillness is crucial; it is my time to gather strength. Planting me now aligns with my natural rhythm, allowing my roots to establish themselves in the cool autumn soil before I must face the winter. This head start is vital for my survival and future success. Do not be alarmed by my dry, papery outer tunic; it is my protective coat, shielding the moisture and life stored within my scales.
My needs for a container are specific. I demand excellent drainage above all else. I despise sitting in soggy, waterlogged soil, as it will cause my bulb to rot and perish. Please choose a pot that is at least 12 inches in diameter and has ample drainage holes. The material can be terracotta, which breathes and helps moisture evaporate, or a sturdy resin. As for my soil, a standard potting mix is insufficient. I require a sharply draining medium. Please create a blend for me by mixing a good quality potting soil with a generous amount of horticultural grit, perlite, or sharp sand. A ratio of two parts soil to one part grit is ideal. This ensures that water flows through quickly, providing moisture to my roots without drowning me.
How you place me in the pot is critical for my well-being. Unlike many other bulbs, I do not like to be buried deeply. My top, the pointy nose of my bulb, must remain exposed and just at the soil surface. If you bury me too deeply, I will expend all my energy just trying to reach the surface and may never flower. A good rule is to plant me so that the top third to half of my bulb is visible above the soil line. If I am with other Nerine bulbs, please give us space. Place us about 4 to 6 inches apart so our foliage and flower stalks have room to emerge without crowding each other. This spacing allows for good air circulation, which helps prevent fungal diseases.
After you have settled me into my new home, I require a careful watering regimen. Give me a thorough initial watering to help settle the soil around my roots and encourage them to stretch out. After this, water me very sparingly until you see my flower spike or new leaves begin to emerge. Once I show signs of growth, you can increase watering, always allowing the top inch of soil to dry out between drinks. For gardeners in USDA zones 7-10, I can usually winter outdoors in my pot. Place me in a sheltered spot, perhaps against a south-facing wall for warmth. In colder zones (6 and below), I need protection. Move my pot to a cool, frost-free garage or shed where the temperature stays above 25°F. I still need a little light during this time, so a window is perfect.
Once my spectacular pink blooms fade, my work is not done. My strappy, green leaves will continue to grow throughout the winter and spring. This foliage is my solar panel, absorbing sunlight to create energy that is stored back in my bulb for next year's flower show. Please do not cut these leaves back until they have yellowed and died back naturally in late spring or early summer. This is also the time to feed me. As my leaves are actively photosynthesizing, a monthly feed with a balanced liquid fertilizer will be greatly appreciated, helping to replenish my energy stores completely for the next dormant period and glorious autumn bloom.
