Ixias – Mixed – 25 bulbs p-pack

Ixia, also known as Corn Lily or African Lily, is a hardy, spring-flowering bulb in the Iridaceae family. It produces vibrant, star-shaped flowers in shades of pink, yellow, red, orange, and white, making it a favorite for wildflower gardens, borders, and containers.

1. Best Growing Conditions

✅ Climate:

• Native to South Africa, Ixia thrives in Mediterranean, temperate, and semi-arid regions.

• Ideal for Western Cape, Eastern Cape, Free State, Gauteng, and parts of KwaZulu-Natal.

• Prefers cool, wet winters and warm, dry summers.

✅ Sunlight:

• Requires full sun (at least 6 hours daily) for best flowering.

✅ Soil Requirements:

• Well-draining, sandy or loamy soil is best.

• pH: 6.0–7.5 (slightly acidic to neutral).

• If soil is heavy, add compost and coarse sand for better drainage.

2. Planting Ixia Corms

✅ Best Planting Time:

• Autumn (March–May) for spring flowering (August–October).

✅ Depth & Spacing:

• Plant 5–8 cm deep and 5–10 cm apart.

• Plant in clusters for a naturalized, wildflower effect.

✅ Container Growing:

• Use deep pots (at least 20 cm deep) with well-draining potting mix.

• Ensure good drainage holes to prevent rot.

3. Watering & Care

✅ Watering:

• Water moderately after planting.

• Keep soil evenly moist during the growing season (autumn to spring).

• Reduce watering after flowering, as plants enter summer dormancy.

✅ Fertilizing:

• At planting: Apply a balanced bulb fertilizer (5-10-10 or 3-5-5).

• When buds appear, feed again with a potassium-rich fertilizer for strong flowers.

✅ Mulching:

• Apply a thin layer of organic mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds.

4. Flowering & Dormancy

✅ Bloom Time:

• Flowers from August to October.

• Blooms are bright, star-shaped, and long-lasting—great for cut flowers.

✅ After Flowering Care:

• Allow foliage to die back naturally—this helps corms store energy for the next season.

• Stop watering as the plant enters summer dormancy.

✅ Lifting & Storing Corms (Optional):

• In very wet summer regions, lift corms after dormancy and store in a dry, cool place until replanting in autumn.

5. Pests & Diseases

✅ Common Pests:

• Aphids & thrips – Spray with neem oil if necessary.

• Slugs & snails – Use organic traps or deterrents.

✅ Disease Issues:

• Corm rot – Avoid overwatering and ensure good drainage.

• Rust & Leaf Spot – Remove infected leaves and improve air circulation.

6. Propagation

✅ By Corms (Easiest Method):

• Ixia corms multiply naturally, forming small offsets.

• Every 2–3 years, divide and replant offsets in autumn.

✅ By Seeds (Slower):

• Can be grown from seed, but takes several years to flower.

7. Companion Planting

• Pairs well with Freesias, Dutch Iris, Anemones, and Sparaxis.

• Ideal for wildflower meadows, rock gardens, and cut flower gardens.

Conclusion

Ixia is a low-maintenance, drought-tolerant South African native that thrives in local gardens. With autumn planting, full sun, and well-draining soil, you’ll enjoy a stunning display of colorful, starry blooms every spring! 🌸🌿