A Lycoris Question
James Waddick (Tue, 04 Aug 2009 07:50:20 PDT)
I've noticed that several of my pink Lycoris bulbs are putting up two
bloomstalks this year. Is this because the bulb itself has gotten large
enough to do so or is it because an offset is also sending up a bloomstalk?
Dear Anita and all,
Lycoris squamigera is generally a vigorous grower and
multiplies well. Each mature bulb produces a single bloom stalk. I'd
guess those bulbs with 2 flower stalks have at least 4 bulbs
underground, maybe more. Some bulbs will divide each year and can
eventually form individual clumps of 8 or more bloom stalks with more
immature smaller bulbs underground.
You can safely dig Lycoris either a few weeks before bloom
(hard to guess) or right after the bloom stalks have died down.
Divide them into individual bulbs and replant immediately . Do not
allow roots or bulbs to dry out during this procedure. Water well.
This is one of the easiest Lycoris species for northern
gardens. Enjoy Jim W.
--
Dr. James W. Waddick
8871 NW Brostrom Rd.
Kansas City Missouri 64152-2711
USA
Ph. 816-746-1949
Zone 5 Record low -23F
Summer 100F +