Care & Planting of Agapanthus

Site Selection

• Agapanthus prefers a full sun location. The site should be well-draining but rich in organic material so that some moisture remains. It grows best when left undisturbed except for division. When planting in pots, choose commercial soilless growing mediums and pots with exceptional drainage. Agapanthus benefits from mulching.

Planting

• Plant agapanthus in loose, prepared soil with the pointed end of the bulb facing up. Place the bulb 1 to 3 inches below the soil surface, depending on the cultivar. Space bulbs 18 to 24 inches apart for a thick clumping effect. In pots, plant agapanthus at similar depths, but crowding could be necessary for a better effect.

Care

• Agapanthus requires little care once it is established. During the first year, water regularly; do not allow the plant to dry out. When the plant goes dormant, reduce waterings to allow the soil to dry between them. Feed agapanthus a balanced fertilizer while it is in bloom. The plants can be dug and brought indoors into a garage in a pot of peat moss if winter freezes are problematic.

Division

• Divide agapanthus every five to seven years, or when the plant seems to be outgrowing its area. Potted agapanthus might need more frequent divisions because it doesn't have as much room to spread out. Use a very sharp pair of garden pruners, because agapanthus has tough rhizomes. Make sure each division has at least one eye and several roots. Replant the divisions immediately so they don't dry out.