Montbretia Crocosmia Bright Eyes = 'Walbreyes' (PBR)

Water

Montbretia 'Bright Eyes' should be watered deeply but infrequently, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings. Generally, this means watering approximately once a week, although this can vary depending on climate and soil conditions. In hotter, dryer periods, watering may need to be increased to twice a week, providing about one inch of water each time. It's best to water early in the morning to minimize evaporation and allow the foliage time to dry, which helps to prevent fungal diseases. During the winter, when the plant is dormant, reduce watering significantly to prevent the corms from rotting.

Light

Montbretia 'Bright Eyes' thrives best in full sunlight to partial shade conditions. Ideally, plant it in a location where it receives at least 6 hours of sunlight daily. This plant will bloom more profusely with adequate sunlight, although it can tolerate some afternoon shade in hotter climates.

Temperature

Montbretia 'Bright Eyes' grows well in a temperate range, performing best in USDA zones 5 through 9. It can tolerate temperatures down to about 20 degrees Fahrenheit, but ideally should be grown where temperatures consistently range between 60 to 90 degrees Fahrenheit. In regions where winter temperatures drop below the survival range, consider mulching to help protect the corms from freezing.

Pruning

Montbretia 'Bright Eyes' should be pruned to remove spent flower stalks after blooming to encourage further blooming and to maintain plant vigor. At the end of the growing season, usually in late fall, prune back foliage after it has died back naturally. This cleanup will also help reduce the likelihood of disease the following season. Pruning in late winter or early spring is also acceptable if not done in the fall.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

Crocosmias, commonly known as Montbretia, thrive best in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The ideal soil pH for Montbretia is slightly acidic to neutral, between 6.0 and 7.0. A good soil mix would include two parts garden soil, one part well-rotted compost or peat moss, and one part sharp sand or perlite to improve drainage.

Repotting

Montbretia typically does not require frequent repotting and is often grown as a perennial that returns each year. These plants can be left undisturbed for several years; repotting is only necessary when they become overcrowded, about every 3 to 5 years.

Humidity & Misting

Montbretia prefers a moderate level of humidity typical of outdoor conditions. They do not require any special humidity requirements when planted outdoors; the natural ambient humidity is generally sufficient for their growth.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Ensure bright light, well-draining soil, and moderate water.

• Outdoor

  Full sun, fertile soil, ensure proper spacing, water regularly.

• Hardiness zone

  5-9 USDA

Life cycle

The life of Crocosmia 'Bright Eyes', commonly known as Montbretia, begins with the germination of corms, planted in spring once the danger of frost has passed. The corms sprout into strap-like foliage, and as temperatures warm, erect flower stems grow, producing a spiky inflorescence of bright orange to red flowers with a contrasting center by mid to late summer. After blooming, the flowers give way to seed capsules, although propagation is commonly achieved via division of the corms. In fall, the plant’s foliage dies back as it enters dormancy for winter, with the corms overwintering underground. In areas with harsh winters, corms may need to be lifted and stored until spring. Every few years, Montbretia should be divided to maintain vigor and prevent overcrowding, allowing the cycle to begin anew with fresh plantings.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Spring to Summer

• Propogation: The most popular way to propagate Crocosmia 'Bright Eyes' is through division, typically undertaken in the spring just before new growth starts. To do this, carefully lift clusters of mature corms from the soil with a garden fork, minimizing damage to the roots. Shake off excess soil and gently pull apart the corms, keeping those with growing points intact. Replant the separated corms immediately at a depth of about 3-4 inches (7.5-10 cm) and space them approximately 6 inches apart (15 cm), ensuring they have adequate sunlight and well-draining soil. Water them in after planting to settle the soil around the corms and begin the growth cycle anew.