Guernsey Lily Nerine bowdenii 'Quinton Wells'

Water

Guernsey Lilies should be watered moderately during the growing season, tapering off as the plants enter dormancy. Typically, you should water them every 7 to 10 days, ensuring the soil becomes somewhat dry between waterings. During active growth, you may need to provide about an inch of water each time, depending on the pot size and environmental conditions. Over the winter, water sparingly, just enough to keep the bulbs from completely drying out, possibly reducing to a few ounces every couple of weeks. Always adjust watering according to the plant's needs, weather, and indoor conditions.

Light

Guernsey Lilies thrive best in full sun to partial shade. They prefer a spot that receives bright, indirect light for several hours a day. Too much direct sun can scorch the leaves, so a location with morning sun and afternoon shade is often ideal. These plants can also adapt to full morning sun with some dappled afternoon light providing the best conditions for their growth.

Temperature

Guernsey Lilies can tolerate a wide range of temperatures but perform best in conditions between 50 and 70 degrees Fahrenheit. They can survive minimum temperatures down to around 32 degrees Fahrenheit but should be protected from frost. Avoid exposure to temperatures above 80 degrees Fahrenheit for prolonged periods, as this can stress the plant.

Pruning

Guernsey Lilies require minimal pruning, primarily to remove spent flower stalks and dead or yellowing leaves. This can encourage the plant to direct its energy into bulb development for next year's flowers. Prune immediately after flowering, usually in late fall or as the flowers fade. Deadheading, or removing the old flowers, can also be done, but be careful not to damage the foliage that remains.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

Nerine, commonly known as Guernsey Lily, thrives in well-draining soil with a mix of loam and sand or grit, enriched with organic matter such as leaf mold or compost. Aim for a soil pH that is slightly acidic to neutral, around pH 6.0 to 7.0, to ensure optimal growth.

Repotting

Guernsey Lilies should be repotted every three to five years or when they become overcrowded in their current pots. It is best to repot these plants after they have finished blooming and are entering dormancy.

Humidity & Misting

Guernsey Lilies prefer moderate humidity levels but are quite adaptable. They do not require any special humidity considerations and can tolerate the humidity levels typically found in most homes.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Place Guernsey Lily in bright light indoors, avoid overwatering.

• Outdoor

  Plant Guernsey Lily in full sun, well-draining soil; protect from frost.

• Hardiness zone

  7-10 USDA

Life cycle

Nerine bowdenii 'Quinton Wells', commonly known as Quinton Wells nerine, begins its life cycle with bulb growth, where the plant's energy is stored in its bulbous underground structure during dormancy, typically in the winter months. In spring, foliage emerges in the form of strappy leaves, and the plant starts accumulating energy through photosynthesis. During late summer to autumn, the plant blossoms, producing showy pink flowers on tall stalks which attract pollinators and may lead to the production of seed if properly fertilized. After flowering, the plant enters a period of senescence; the leaves yellow and wither as the plant redirects resources back to the bulb. The cycle continues with the bulb overwintering again, lying dormant until the next growing season. If conditions are favorable, the bulb may also produce offsets, thus propagating asexually and expanding its presence in the garden.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Spring-Early Summer

• Nerine bowdenii 'Quinton Wells', commonly known as Guernsey Lily or Cape Flower, is often propagated through division, which is typically carried out in late spring after the foliage has died down or in early autumn before new growth begins. When propagating by division, carefully lift the clump of bulbs from the ground with a fork or spade, avoiding damage to the bulbs. Gently separate the offsets from the parent bulbs. These offsets are miniature bulbs that form around the base of the main bulb. After separating, replant the offsets at a depth of about 4 to 6 inches (10 to 15 centimeters) and spaced approximately 8 to 10 inches (20 to 25 centimeters) apart, allowing for enough room for the plants to grow and mature. It is important to choose a sunny location with well-draining soil to encourage successful growth and flowering in subsequent seasons.