Grow Nerines, The Stunning Autumn Plant

Last Updated on June 7, 2022 by Real Men Sow

In late autumn, Nerines display a stunning display of lily-like blooms against strappy leaves. They are great for cutting flowers and can be used as borders or containers. The majority of nerines are delicate and should be grown in a greenhouse. However, Nerine bowdenii can be grown in warmer parts of the UK.

How To Grow Nerines

You can grow nerines from bulbs and can be planted in spring in poor soil that is free draining and in full sun. As the plants begin to decline for winter, cut back on flowering and tidy up leaves. The tender types should be brought indoors in autumn. However, Nerine bowdenii can survive in southerly regions. Instead, cover with a thick layer of mulch.

Where To Plant Nerines

Nerine bowdenii, true to their South African roots, requires a sunny, dry area to thrive. They are also happy in poor soil. While many are tender, you can grow them in a greenhouse. However, Nerine bowdenii grows well in the UK’s warmer regions. To get the best results, grow them outdoors in well-drained soil and full sun. They won’t flower in shade and will thrive in rich soils. You can also grow them in containers.

How To Plant Nerines

Spring is the best time to plant Nerine bowdenii bulbs. Add plenty of grit to the soil for drainage. Then, plant the bulbs 7-10 cm apart. Mulch the bulbs until they are established for the first winter. Then, wait for them to flower prolifically for a year. Pots are also a good option.

You can also grow nerines from seeds. Place seeds in a tray with seed compost and grit. Cover the tray with compost. To germinate the seeds, heat is required at 10-13°C. Keep the seeds warm with water. The bulbs will flower in 3-5 years if they are potted after a year.

How To Care For Nerines

As winter approaches, trim back dead flowers and clean up the foliage. In autumn, move tender plants indoors or apply a thick layer of mulch to Nerine bowdenii variety.

Proper Propagation

Large clumps of Nerines can form over time. These clumps should be broken up periodically to ensure good flowering. This is the best way to propagate them. This is the best time to do it in spring or early summer. Simply dig up a clump and divide it. Then replant the smaller ones separately. You can also grow nerines from seeds. After flowering, collect the seed and sow it as soon as it is ripe.

Problems When Growing Nerine Plants

Nerine undulata (Flexuosa Group), flowers that appear in the early winter are more susceptible to weather and slug damage. You may not see Nerine flowers again for up to a year after replanting. This is normal. They will flower again the next year once they settle.

Nerine Varieties to Grow

Patricia

This pretty pink flower has sturdy stems and looks great as a late summer border plant or cut flower indoors.

Alba

 Star-shaped, crisp, white, star-shaped flowers that appear on strong stems. This flower is a great addition to the late-summer border or as a cut flower.

Fenwicks Variety

The sturdy stem bear clusters up to 12 pink blooms during autumn

Kathleen Pollock

One of the cultivars that has striking red flowers. It is a great cut flower and works well in a mixed herbaceous garden.

Nerine undulate

 Delicate pinkish-purple blooms, which appear later than the bowdenii varieties in November and December. It needs the same conditions for growth, but it will need protection in winter because of its late blooming.

Real Men Sow
Real Men Sow

Hello, I’m Pete and I’m currently based in the west of Scotland, in a small place called Rosneath, where I’m exploring my garden adventures. I personally started gardening around 6 years ago and initially, I started out by growing my favorite fruits and berries, such as strawberries, Raspberries & Gooseberries. Since then I’ve added a lot of vegetables and working closely with my neighbor, it’s been a lot of fun.