# How to Grow Ornithogalum Saundersiae
Ornithogalum saundersiae is the botanical name for a bulbous perennial commonly called giant chincherinchee. It grows up to 3½ feet tall and produces rounded white-bloom clusters from summer until autumn. The blooms are suspended on slender stalks and make long-lasting additions to cut flower arrangements. Ornithogalum saundersiae thrives in fertile soil with good drainage. The plants grow in a variety of light exposures, from full sun to light shade, and are winter hardy in U.S. Department of Agriculture Zone 7 and above.
Things You'll Need
- Spade
- Humus
- Mulch
- 10-10-10 fertilizer
Instructions
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1
Loosen the soil at the planting site to a depth of 6 to 8 inches. Remove grass and root clumps as well as large rocks.
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2
Mix 4 inches of humus with the turned soil to add nutrients and improve drainage.
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3
Plant Ornithogalum saundersiae bulbs approximately 2 inches deep. For the most attractive planting, place the bulbs in clusters of 15 to 20, leaving a space of 7 to 8 inches between each group.
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4
Water until the ground feels damp right after planting.
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5
Spread 3 inches of mulch around the plants when they are 2 to 3 inches tall to prevent competition from weeds.
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6
Keep the soil evenly moist during spring and summer, but always check it before adding moisture to avoid over-watering. Water more frequently when blooms start to form, as the plants use more moisture during this time.
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7
Reduce the amount of water provided after the blooms fade and the leaves begin to yellow. Water only if conditions are extremely dry during winter, as the bulbs don't grow during this period and require little moisture.
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Feed in spring, beginning during the second growing season, with 10-10-10 fertilizer. Apply the fertilizer at half the rate recommended on package instructions. Sprinkle the granules around the plants and water deeply after making the application.
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