Ixia is an unusual, rare tropical flower that's not found in every garden. That's why many gardeners turn to this particular flower to add a touch of flair to their garden. While the process for more popular plants is relatively straightforward, planting and caring for ixia outdoors (photo) remains a mystery. What conditions should be created for the plant to thrive and bloom?
The most popular types
Like any other flower, ixia has a wide variety of cultivars. Let's look at the most popular and beautiful varieties of this tropical flower.
- Green-flowered Ixia
This species blooms profusely in early June, with delicate green flowers against a black throat. It grows up to 50 centimeters tall, producing neat, small buds. Peculiarities of growing primrose.
- Hybrid Ixia
This variety can grow from 35 to 55 centimeters in height. Its flowers come in a variety of colors, ranging from soft pink to light blue. The flowers resemble small stars, making them very attractive. A very popular garden variety.
- Spotted Ixia
It's a favorite due to its unusual coloring. As the variety's name suggests, the flower's coloring is spotted rather than uniform. The petal edges have a delicate purple hue, while those closer to the throat are blue or dark purple. They grow up to 50 centimeters long. The unusual petal coloring makes this flower unique and mysterious.
- Orange Ixia
This variety stands out from all the others not only for its bright orange flowers but also for its height. It's one of the shortest, reaching just 20 centimeters in height. Its strong, tart aroma also makes it stand out.
Of course, the list of Ixia varieties listed above doesn't end there. There are many other unusual cultivars, but they are less common.
How to plant a plant
Like many other tropical flowers, Ixia is very sensitive to light, warmth, and moisture. Therefore, it should be planted in a sunny, shade-free location. Although Ixia is highly resistant to various diseases, it's best to replant the plant each year. If Godetia is grown.
Interesting: Planting and caring for ixia outdoors will differ in Siberia. Since the plant is tropical, it cannot be overwintered. The corms of the flower must be dug up annually if it grows in temperate climates.
These plants prefer non-acidic, loose soil with a high humus and nutrient content. Good drainage is essential to prevent water stagnation, as Ixia does not like moisture.
In the area you've chosen for planting, you need to prepare the soil. Specifically, weed it, loosen it, add compost, and only then begin planting.
Sowing dates
Ixia: planting and care in open ground (video) is done in the spring, when temperatures are relatively warm and stable. This is usually in May. If planting is delayed, the flower sprouts will be weak or even die.
Before planting, add fertile soil to the bottom of the holes, then bury the corms to a depth of 5 to 8 centimeters. The distance between holes should be 8-12 centimeters for baby plants and 10-20 centimeters for corms.
Growth and care
Once planted in the soil, the plant does not require watering. The first watering should be done when the first shoots appear, which usually occurs within 2-3 weeks of planting. Ixias are most demanding when budding and flowering, during which time the plant should be watered frequently and thoroughly. If the weather is hot, it's a good idea to mist the flowers with soft water to maintain humidity.
The plant also needs fertilization. Ixia thrives on mineral and organic fertilizers, which can be alternated. If dried-up inflorescences appear, they should be cut off. As soon as the plant stops blooming, stop watering the flowers. When all the leaves have dried out, the bulbs can be dug up for winter storage.
When growing garden ixia, you may encounter the problem of wilting leaves. This is caused by insufficient moisture. It's important to ensure the soil doesn't dry out, even for a single day. However, remember that ixia doesn't tolerate high humidity, so ensure proper drainage and treat the bulbs with a fungicide before planting. Pay attention to Lunar sowing calendar for 2016 for Siberia.
Storing bulbs in winter
Once the last leaf of the plant has dried, you can dig up the bulbs. Dry them and treat them with a weak solution of potassium permanganate to disinfect them. Next, wrap the bulbs in newspaper and place them in a cool, but not too cold, place. The refrigerator is the best place.
Planting and caring for ixia outdoors isn't that difficult; the key is to consider the plant's needs. Then it will delight you with abundant blooms and its unearthly beauty!