Planting and Care of Cape Bulbs

For the widest choice, buy or order bulbs in August, but wait until late September or October to plant and water. If bulbs have already sprouted, plant and water immediately.

Planting

Dig a hole two to three times deeper than the bulb height. Plant pointed side up, indented side down. Improve drainage with a sand sandwich: ½ inch construction-grade sand at bottom of hole, place bulbs, cover with another ½ inch sand. For containers, use a fast-draining mix (40% fir bark, 40% sand, 20% pumice).

Watering and Dormancy

Water regularly during active growth. After bloom, when foliage yellows, reduce irrigation for several weeks to encourage dormancy, then stop watering. Store potted bulbs in a shady location after soil is dry.

Sources

Jim Duggan Flower Nursery: Carries everything listed and more. (760) 943-1658 or www.thebulbman.com. Catalog $2.
McClure & Zimmerman: Lachenalia, sparaxis, watsonia. (800) 883-6998 or ...