Blue Agapanthus

Why do these seem to die at the bottom of thr foilage here in the Central Valley in California?

In the Central Valley of California, the lower foliage of agapanthus may die due to overwatering, poor drainage, or fungal infections caused by high humidity. Ensure the soil is well-draining and avoid wetting the leaves during watering.

Do the flowers go to seed after blooming?

Yes, the flowers of blue agapanthus produce seed pods after blooming. These can be collected and planted to grow new plants.

Should the stalks be cut after it blooms

Yes, cut the stalks back to the base after blooming to promote healthy growth and prepare the plant for the next flowering cycle.

Would this plant grow in Mountains of Wyoming?

Blue Agapanthus (Agapanthus africanus), also known as Lily of the Nile, is not well-suited for growing in the mountains of Wyoming.

Reasons:

1. Hardiness Zone:

   • Blue Agapanthus is typically hardy in USDA Zones 8-11. Wyoming, particularly the mountainous regions, generally falls within USDA Zones 3-5, where winter temperatures can drop significantly below freezing. These temperatures are too cold for Agapanthus, which is not frost-tolerant and would not survive the harsh winters.

2. Cold Sensitivity:

   • Agapanthus is sensitive to freezing temperatures. In areas with harsh winters, the plant's rhizomes can be damaged or killed by frost.

Alternative Options:

• Container Growing:
  • If you want to grow Agapanthus in Wyoming, consider planting it in a container that can be brought indoors during the winter. Keep the plant in a cool, bright location indoors until the danger of frost has passed in the spring.
• Cold-Hardy Perennials:
  • For outdoor planting in Wyoming's mountainous regions, consider cold-hardy perennials that can withstand the winter temperatures, such as Russian Sage (Perovskia atriplicifolia) or Blue Flax (Linum perenne).

Summary:

Blue Agapanthus is not suitable for growing in the mountainous regions of Wyoming due to the cold winter temperatures. However, it can be grown in containers and brought indoors during winter or you can opt for cold-hardy perennials that are better suited for the climate.

Do you deliver your plants?

We deliver plants all over the USA except Arizona and Hawaii.

What kind of fertilizer does the agent need?

18-6-8 Nutri-Cote, its actually the fertilizer we sell. 

What kind of fertilizer does this plant need?

18-6-8 nutri-cote. We actually sell it online. It will fertilize your plant for a year.

Is it perennial

Yes it is.

How many hours of sunlight

Blue Agapanthus (commonly known as Lily of the Nile) thrives best with 6 to 8 hours of sunlight per day. This full sun exposure encourages abundant blooming and healthy growth.

Light Requirements:

• Full Sun: For the best flowering results, aim for at least 6 hours of direct sunlight.
• Partial Shade: While Agapanthus can tolerate some partial shade, especially in hotter climates, too much shade may reduce the number of blooms.

Summary:

For optimal growth and flowering, ensure your Blue Agapanthus receives 6 to 8 hours of sunlight daily.

Will this service in Nc wintets

A Blue Agapanthus (Agapanthus africanus) can survive North Carolina winters in USDA Zones 8 to 11, where the climate remains mild. In these zones, the plant will typically return each year as a perennial. However, in cooler areas of North Carolina, especially in Zone 7 or below, Blue Agapanthus may not survive the winter outdoors. For those regions, it's best to either plant them in containers that can be brought indoors during colder months or provide heavy mulching and protection against frost.

Perennial?

Yes, Blue Agapanthus (Agapanthus africanus), also known as Lily of the Nile, is a perennial plant in warmer climates. It is hardy in USDA zones 8-11 and will return year after year in those regions. In cooler climates, it may be grown as an annual or in containers and brought indoors during the winter. This plant produces beautiful clusters of blue or purple flowers in the summer and is known for its long-lasting blooms.

Will this survive in Yuma Arizona in the afternoon shade?

Yes, Blue Agapanthus can survive in Yuma, Arizona, with afternoon shade. While Yuma has an intense desert climate, providing afternoon shade helps protect the Agapanthus from the scorching heat. Agapanthus prefers partial shade in hot climates and will thrive with regular watering, well-drained soil, and some relief from the direct afternoon sun, especially in extreme desert heat.

What agapanthus variety is this? Is it hardy to lower temperatures?

Lily of the Nile (Agapanthus) is moderately hardy when it comes to lower temperatures, but its cold tolerance depends on the specific variety:

• Hardiness Zones: Agapanthus typically thrives in USDA zones 8 to 11. Some varieties can survive in zone 7 with extra winter protection.
• Cold Tolerance: Most Agapanthus varieties can tolerate temperatures down to about 20°F (-6°C). However, sustained temperatures below freezing can damage or kill the plant.

If you live in a colder region, mulching heavily around the roots or moving potted Agapanthus indoors can help protect them during winter. For extended freezing temperatures, consider more cold-hardy varieties like Agapanthus 'Headbourne' hybrids, which may tolerate colder conditions.

How to store the bulbs? Want to move them to new house.

To store Blue Agapanthus bulbs for travel, follow these steps for optimal preservation:

1. Dig up the Bulbs: Carefully dig up the agapanthus bulbs after the plant has finished flowering and the foliage begins to die back, usually in the fall. Be gentle to avoid damaging the roots.

2. Clean the Bulbs: Remove excess soil from the bulbs, but do not wash them with water. You can lightly brush off the dirt to keep the bulbs dry and prevent rot.

3. Cure the Bulbs: Allow the bulbs to air-dry in a cool, dry, and shaded area for a few days to "cure" them. This helps prevent fungal growth during storage.

4. Wrap the Bulbs: Once the bulbs are dry, wrap each bulb individually in newspaper, paper towels, or tissue paper to absorb any remaining moisture and protect them from damage.

5. Store in a Ventilated Container: Place the wrapped bulbs in a breathable container, such as a cardboard box or mesh bag, and store them in a cool, dark place that stays around 40-50°F (4-10°C). Ensure the storage area is dry to prevent rot.

6. Label the Bulbs: Label the container with the type of bulbs and the date of storage to keep track of them.

7. Replant: When you're ready to plant them, check for any signs of rot or damage before replanting. Replant the agapanthus bulbs in well-drained soil in the appropriate climate.

This method ensures the bulbs stay dry and safe during travel, helping them thrive once replanted.

After bloom do you pull up stalk or just let it die off

After a blue agapanthus blooms, you can deadhead by cutting the stalk back to the base once it finishes flowering. This encourages the plant to direct energy toward foliage and root development rather than seed production, resulting in healthier growth.

I live in NC just north of Charlotte. When would I plant them here?

In North Carolina, just north of Charlotte, the ideal time to plant blue agapanthus is in spring after the last frost. Planting in spring allows the bulbs to establish strong roots and prepares them for optimal summer growth and flowering.

What kind of soul do you plant a bulb In and how deep?

Plant blue agapanthus bulbs in well-draining soil enriched with compost or organic matter for best results. Place bulbs 2-3 inches deep, spacing them about 12-18 inches apart to allow for adequate air circulation and root expansion.

Will this plant do well in Middle Tennessee?

Yes, blue agapanthus can grow in Middle Tennessee if planted in well-drained soil and in a location with full sun to partial shade. In colder winters, mulch around the base to protect it, or consider planting in pots that can be moved indoors.

Do they get root bound? Or do they like being crowded in a pot?

Yes, blue agapanthus can get root-bound, but they generally do well with some crowding in a pot. Agapanthus plants tend to bloom better when their roots are slightly restricted, so they’re well-suited for container gardening. However, if they become too root-bound, it can limit their nutrient and water intake, which may reduce blooming or cause stress to the plant.

To keep agapanthus thriving in a pot, consider repotting them every 2-3 years, especially if you notice roots growing out of the drainage holes. Choose a pot that allows a bit of extra space but isn’t too large, as a snug fit encourages the best blooms.

Does it grow in zone 5

Lily of the Nile, also known as Agapanthus, can grow in USDA Zone 7, but it may require some extra care to survive the winter.

Considerations for Growing Lily of the Nile in Zone 7:

1. Winter Hardiness: Agapanthus is generally hardy to Zone 8 or 9, meaning it can be sensitive to colder temperatures. In Zone 7, it might struggle with winter cold, especially if temperatures drop significantly below freezing.

2. Mulching: To protect Agapanthus in Zone 7, it's important to mulch heavily around the base of the plant in late fall. This will help insulate the roots and protect them from freezing temperatures.

3. Microclimate: Planting in a protected area, such as near a south-facing wall, can help the plant survive winter by providing a slightly warmer microclimate.

4. Container Growing: An alternative is to grow Agapanthus in containers so that they can be moved indoors or to a sheltered area during the winter months.

5. Evergreen vs. Deciduous Varieties: Some Agapanthus varieties are evergreen and less cold-tolerant, while others are deciduous and may tolerate colder climates better. Choosing a hardier, deciduous variety might increase your chances of success in Zone 7.

With the right precautions, you can grow Lily of the Nile in Zone 7, but it will need protection from the cold to thrive year after year.

Is this deer resistant?

Blue agapanthus is generally deer-resistant due to its thick, strappy leaves and slightly bitter taste. While not completely deer-proof, it is less likely to be browsed by deer, making it a low-maintenance choice for gardens in areas with wildlife.

How to plant the pods after blooming?

To plant the seed pods of a blue agapanthus, wait until the pods dry and turn brown. Collect the seeds, plant them in well-draining soil, and keep the soil moist in a warm, sunny location. Germination may take a few weeks.

Do you cut off the old blooms

Yes, removing spent blooms, also called deadheading, encourages fresh growth and keeps the plant looking tidy.

When flower starts to fade, cut/pick/leave alone?

Cut the spent flowers to encourage the plant to focus energy on its foliage and roots. This is known as deadheading and keeps the plant looking tidy.

Watering & fertilizing How much

Water blue agapanthus regularly, keeping the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Fertilize with a balanced fertilizer every 4–6 weeks during the growing season to promote lush growth and abundant blooms.

Do they like acid soil?

Yes, blue agapanthus prefers slightly acidic to neutral soil with a pH of 6.0–7.0 for optimal growth.

will this grow in the hot az desert

Blue agapanthus can grow in the hot Arizona desert if planted in a location with partial shade, well-draining soil, and regular watering to offset the arid climate.

Do you cut the dead stalk off after blooming?

Yes, cut the dead stalks after blooming to redirect energy into the plant’s root system and maintain a clean appearance.

Where is the Lilly of the Nile native to.

The lily of the Nile, or blue agapanthus, is native to South Africa, where it thrives in warm, sunny climates.