From my perspective as a Polianthes tuberosa, my most crucial need is abundant light. I am a sun-worshipper by nature, originating from warm climates. To thrive and, most importantly, to produce my iconic, intoxicatingly fragrant flower spikes indoors, I require a minimum of 6-8 hours of direct, bright sunlight daily. A south-facing window is my ideal location. Without this intense light, my growth will be weak and leggy, and I will likely not bloom. Furthermore, I am highly sensitive to cold. I need consistently warm temperatures, ideally between 70-85°F (21-29°C) during the active growing season. Drafts from windows, doors, or air conditioning units are very stressful for me and can halt my growth.
My bulb is my life source, storing the energy needed to grow and bloom. Therefore, my container and soil are of utmost importance. I require a pot that is both sturdy and has excellent drainage; a material like terra cotta is ideal as it breathes. The pot should be just large enough to accommodate my bulb with a couple of inches of space around it—too large, and the excess soil will stay wet and cause my bulb to rot. The soil mix must be well-draining yet capable of retaining some moisture. A perfect blend for me would be a high-quality potting mix amended with perlite or coarse sand to ensure my roots are never waterlogged, which is a primary cause of my demise.
My watering needs change throughout my growth cycle. When you first plant my dormant bulb, water me sparingly until you see green growth emerge. Once I am actively growing, I prefer a consistent watering schedule. Water me deeply when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch, allowing the excess water to flow freely from the drainage holes. I despise having "wet feet." After my spectacular bloom has faded and my leaves begin to yellow, you must significantly reduce watering. This signals to me that it is time to enter dormancy. Regarding food, I am a heavy feeder during my growth period. A balanced, water-soluble fertilizer applied every two weeks will provide the energy I need to develop my strong flower stalks.
You must understand that I have a distinct annual cycle. I am planted in the spring, I grow and bloom magnificently through the summer, and I require a period of rest (dormancy) in the late fall and winter. After my foliage has died back naturally, you should stop watering entirely. My pot can be moved to a cool (55-60°F / 13-15°C), dark, and dry place, like a basement or garage, for 8-10 weeks. This dormant period is not optional; it is essential for me to recharge and gather the strength to bloom for you again the following season. Do not water me during this rest.
