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Alstroemeria Plant Care

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By Amy Madtson
eHow Contributing Writer
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Also known as Peruvian Lily and Inca Lily, this plant native to South America has about 50 species and is related to the amaryllis family. Alstroemeria is a perennial that flowers in late spring through summer in various colors including bright yellow, orange, pink, red, purple, lavender and white. Its leaves are resupinate, meaning they grow upside down, twisting out of the base of the plant so what would be the top becomes the bottom of the leaf.

    Growing conditions

  1. Alstroemeria prefers full sun locations with part afternoon shade in really hot climates. If grown in too much shade the plant will develop tall floppy flowers on weak stems.
    The ground should be prepared before planting to ensure a well-drained soil. Work in humus when tilling your garden area or add a good compost, especially if you have heavy clay soil.
    If your area gets winters below 35 degrees Fahrenheit it may be best to grow your plants in containers that can be brought in and wintered over since alstroemeria will freeze.
  2. Watering and fertilizing

  3. During the growing season, water every day to keep the soil moist. Do not let the ground dry out or the leaves will turn yellow and drop off. During the winter months alstroemeria require very little water. Feed your plants monthly during the growing season from when the flowers open until the plant stops flowering. Using an organic liquid fertilize will keep your plant blooming all through the summer. The more you keep the flowers cut the more blooms will appear on your plants. Cut off flowers to use in bouquets or deadhead after the flowers are spent.
  4. Mulching and Pests

  5. Apply mulch around the Peruvian lily during the summer to help retain moisture and keep the soil cool. After the growing season is over r cut the plants back to about 4 to 6 inches and cover with a thick layer of straw or other mulch to protect from the winter temperatures. In the early spring or after the chance of frost has passed, remove the mulch.
    The most common pests are slugs and snails that like to live under the leaves in moist conditions. To prevent or treat these pests either apply a slug or snail bait around your plants or remove them by hand. Slug or snail bait can be purchased in gardening stores.

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eHow Article: Alstroemeria Plant Care

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