Alstroemeria (Princess Lilies) Indoors: Soil, Fertilizer, Summer Vacation

Indoor Care Basics (Zone 5b – Wisconsin)

• Soil: Standard potting mix (well-draining).
• Fertilizer: Balanced 12-12-12 at label rate. Spring: add bone meal for rhizomes.
• Foliar feed? Not worth it. Half-strength 12-12-12 spray every 10–14 days if you insist.
• Light: Direct sun (south/west window).
• Water: Weekly; summer: only when top inch dry.

Critical: Summer Outdoors

Move to patio/porch for summer. Cool nights, direct sun, air movement = vigorous growth. Above 80°F? Protect from hottest afternoon sun.

Native Habitat Clues

Lower Andes slopes: cool, semi-dry, bright. Mimic this—don’t overwater, don’t overheat.

Repotting/Splitting

• Spring: divide rhizomes, pot in fresh mix.
• Don’t bury crowns—keep at soil level.

Your apartment Alstroemeria will thrive with a summer vacation. That’s the secret.