Montbretia are perennial bulbous plants originally native to the warm mountainous regions of South Africa. They require relatively little care and are easy to cultivate. However, there are a few basic points to be observed with the Montbretia too, so that the plants bloom magnificently and every year.

Montbretien is a very thirsty garden beauty

The water requirement

In summer it is relatively humid in the homeland of the Montbretia. Therefore, the warmth-loving garden beauties need sufficient moisture even in our latitudes. In contrast to the wild forms, the bred Montbretia tolerate calcareous water very well, so that you do not necessarily have to resort to rainwater for regular watering. Water the Montbretia whenever the soil surface feels dry. This can also be necessary twice a day on hot summer days.

When is fertilized?

During the flowering period, the Montbretia needs a lot of nutrients. Therefore, fertilize outdoor plants in early summer before flowering with a slow-release flowering plant fertilizer. Covering with nutrient-rich compost in winter and adding humus to the soil has also proven effective. If you have cultivated the Montbretia in the bucket, you should supply the plants with liquid fertilizer weekly.

Transplant regularly

Since Montbretia are among the heavy feeders, it is advisable to move them to a new place every three to four years.

Do Montbretia have to be cut?

After flowering, the faded shoot should be cut out. If the Montbretia hibernate outdoors, the foliage is not shortened in autumn because it serves as a natural protection against the cold. Only cut this in the spring.

Montbretia overwinter

Montbretia are conditionally hardy. Depending on the climate in your region, you can overwinter the flowering plants outdoors, well protected by a thick layer of foliage or mulch. In regions where there is a risk of deep frosts, you should dig up the tubers in autumn and store them indoors.

vermin and diseases

Mice love Montbretia tubers. Planting baskets, in which you put the bulbs, help against the hungry rodents. Occasionally, the Montbretia are attacked by thrips (bladder feet). An infestation with aphids is rather rare.

tips

Since Montbretia are very sensitive to waterlogging, you should put a drainage layer of sand or gravel in the planting hole when planting. Excess water can run off quickly and root rot is avoided.

Category:

Vegetable garden