Nerine, a bulbous perennial native to South Africa, thrives in warm, dry climates with well-drained soil and ample sunlight. In its natural habitat, it experiences a distinct wet-dry seasonal cycle, with summer dormancy and autumn flowering. To grow Nerine successfully in the Pacific Northwest (PNW), it’s essential to replicate these conditions as closely as possible, despite the region’s cooler temperatures, frequent rain, and limited sunlight.
The PNW is characterized by mild, wet winters and cool, often overcast summers. For Nerine, this poses two primary challenges: excessive moisture and insufficient sunlight. Prolonged rain can lead to bulb rot, while shade from dense tree cover or persistent cloud cover may reduce flowering vigor. Below, we address these issues from the plant’s perspective.
From the plant’s viewpoint, soggy soil is a death sentence. Nerine bulbs are adapted to dry summers and cannot tolerate waterlogged conditions. To mitigate this:
Nerine requires at least 6 hours of sunlight daily to bloom prolifically. In the PNW’s shade-dappled gardens, the plant may prioritize leaf growth over flowers. Solutions include:
Nerine’s growth cycle must align with the PNW’s atypical seasons. Here’s how the plant “experiences” these adjustments:
Nerine benefits from strategic companions that create drier, sunnier microclimates. Drought-tolerant plants like lavender or sedum can help absorb excess moisture and reflect light. Avoid planting near water-loving species that increase humidity.
In the PNW’s damp conditions, Nerine is more susceptible to slugs, snails, and fungal diseases. From the plant’s perspective, these threats compete for resources. Use organic slug deterrents (e.g., copper tape) and ensure airflow around foliage to reduce fungal risks.
Nerine bulbs store energy for future growth. In the PNW, overcrowding can occur due to reduced bulb division rates in cooler soils. Divide clusters every 3–4 years to maintain vigor and flowering potential.
