We rest. Deep within our bulbs, beneath the frost line of your soil, we are dormant. This period of cold is not a hardship but a necessity. It signals our internal clock that a cycle has ended and a new one will soon begin. Do not fret over us; we are storing energy, protected by our papery tunics. Ensure our planting site is well-drained, as frozen, waterlogged soil is our greatest enemy during this slumber.
The deepest cold persists, and so does our dormancy. Your task remains one of benign neglect. Please resist any urge to disturb our bed. A layer of mulch is appreciated to buffer against drastic temperature swings, but it is not always required if we are planted deep enough. We feel the sun's angle changing, a subtle shift that we note deep within our core, but it is not yet time to stir.
As the soil begins to thaw and warm, a tiny spark of life ignites within us. Roots may begin tentative exploration into the surrounding soil, seeking moisture and nutrients. Above ground, there is still no sign of us. This is an excellent time for you to gently top-dress our bed with a low-nitrogen, potassium-rich fertilizer to feed our upcoming growth spurt. Work it in carefully to avoid damaging our nascent roots.
Our green, strap-like leaves now emerge with vigor, photosynthesizing the strengthening sunlight to fuel our growth. This is our primary vegetative period. Water us regularly if spring rains are infrequent, but always allow the soil to dry out between waterings. We are building the strength for our spectacular autumn display. Continue to let our foliage grow unhindered.
Our leaves are fully developed, catching the summer sun. As temperatures peak, we enter a brief period of semi-dormancy. Our growth above ground may slow or appear to halt. This is normal. Water us only during extended periods of drought, as we prefer to be on the drier side during the heat. Our focus turns inward, to the development of the flower bud hidden inside the bulb.
The critical moment arrives. The combination of warm soil, slightly cooler nights, and the decreasing daylight triggers the final development of our flower spikes. Consistent moisture is now very important to support this internal process. Do not let us become parched. The flower spike begins its journey upward from the bulb, preparing for its debut.
Behold! We erupt into bloom, producing our iconic clusters of spidery, brilliant flowers on tall, leafless stalks. This is why you planted us. We provide a stunning display of pinks, reds, and whites when most other garden flowers are fading. Continue to provide water while we are in flower, and enjoy the spectacle we offer to the late-season pollinators.
Our glorious flowers begin to fade. Once the last bloom has withered, you may deadhead the flower stalks, but it is imperative you leave our foliage untouched. Our leaves are still vital, gathering the last of the autumn sun to create energy stores that will be transferred down into the bulb for next year's cycle. This photosynthesis is our most important task right now.
Our leaves start to yellow and die back naturally as temperatures drop. This is the signal that we are preparing for winter dormancy. Please do not cut our foliage away while it is still even partially green. Allow us to withdraw every last bit of energy. Once the leaves are completely brown and withered, you may gently remove them from the base.
We have returned to our dormant state underground. The cycle is complete. The bulb rests, fortified by the season's work, waiting for the cold to once again signal the turn of the year. Ensure our crown is protected from excess winter wetness. Then, simply wait, as we do, for the entire process to begin anew.
