Sun Star - Ornithogalum - Knowledgebase Question

Woodbury, MN
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Question by iamrekincaid
September 9, 2007
I bought a Sun Star (orange)- Ornithogalum this summer and had it outside in a pot. It did well but when it finished blooming, I put it in the garage and ignored it. I just came upon it again and it has new growth. I read on your site that I should start watering again when new growth appears. How much water should I be giving it now? Should the plant be placed in a sunny window or dark location now that it has new growth. How many times a year will it go through this cycle?

Thanks


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Answer from NGA
September 9, 2007
Place it in a bright location and water often enough to keep the soil moist but not soggy wet. Roots and sprouts will form in the autumn; Winter will bring taller growth and flowers will develop in the spring.

When in bloom, feel free to cut ornithogalum flowers for bouquets. This will not hurt the plants.

After blooming has finished for the season leave the foliage in place; don't cut it off. The leaves will gather sunlight and provide nourishment for next year's show. Water as needed.

Later in the summer the leaves will yellow and die back as the plant slips into dormancy. Foliage may be removed at this point. Your ornithogalum will rest for a few months before beginning the next growing cycle.

Since you're growing yours indoors, you'll eventually have to repot it. When the time comes, fill your containers with good quality, well-drained soil. Almost any commercially available potting medium will work fine. Make sure there are adequate drainage holes; ornithogalum must never sit in waterlogged soil or they will rot.

Plant your ornithogalum 3? deep and 5? apart for the most brilliant display. The bulbs look like small onions. Plant them with the pointed ends facing up.

Hope this answers all your questions!

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