| Recently purchased an Inca Lily. It has stopped blooming. The plant is in a large pot on the deck because it will not winter here. Do I need to pinch off all the former blooms down to the base of the plant to get it to bloom again? |
| Alstroemeria is my favorite flower! They do best in moist, cool, sandy to medium loam. Drainage should be good. They need regular water and would be better off in a location that provides afternoon shade. Tuberous roots should be set about 6-8 inches deep, 1 foot apart. Roots can break easily, so handle gently. They establish rather slowly after transplanting, and do best if left in the same location without being disturbed for many years. They don't like to be divided. They are hardy to about 0 degrees F. Most species bloom from late spring to early or mid-summer. You can pinch off the spent blooms, but your plant has finished blooming for the season. Keep moist and fertilize until blooming stops, then stop feeding and water infrequently. Move the pots into a protected area during the winter months, then set them out on your deck next spring. They should flower right on schedule. Best wishes with your garden! |
