Agapanthus, a popular perennial that grows from a bulb-like rhizome, is a tough survivor in the face of chronic drought. Their strappy evergreen or semi-evergreen leaves provide winter presence while blue or white flowers add a charge of mid to late summer color.The Agapanthus genus consists of seven species that go by the common name lily of the Nile (or sometimes African lily). Native to dry outcroppings or moist mountain meadows of South Africa, they prefer full sun and draining soils.
Provide supplementary moisture during the establishment period. Many also appreciate regular water during the growing season.
The more sun the better, though they'll tolerate partial or dappled shade. If you plant them in a mixed border, don't put them too close to vigorous perennials as they can be overshadowed
August and September are the best time to boost with a fertilizer to enhance blossoming (high P and K), since this is when flower buds begin to develop below ground. Additionally, a well-balanced N-P-K fertilizer should be applied as growth commences in spring.
The key is that it must be able to drain well it can be any type of compost - multi purpose, peat free, John Innes No 2 or 3 - mixed in ratio of 2:1 with horticultural grit, gravel or gritty sand. In thewild, agapanthus thrive in clifftop crevices, so they like a growing medium that is very free draining
Cutting agapanthus back is a matter of personal preference. Some gardeners think the dried flower heads are attractive and provide much needed winter interest. Other gardeners prefer to cut the spent flowers off, a process called deadheading, as soon as they are past the prime. Doing so prevents plants from wasting energy on seed production and instead allows them to store up energy for next yearâs bloom.
Grow single plants in 20-23cm (8-9in) in diameter containers using a loam-based compost, such as John Innes No. 2 or No. 3. All container plants (hardy or tender) benefit from some winter protection
