Squill Scilla 'Valentine Day'

Water

For the Squill, or specifically the Scilla 'Valentine Day', it is important to keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged during its growing season, which is typically in the spring. Watering once a week with about half a gallon of water should suffice for a medium-sized pot, depending on the environmental conditions. During its dormancy period in the summer, when the leaves die back, reduce watering significantly and only provide enough water to prevent the soil from completely drying out. Always check the top inch of the soil for dryness before watering again to avoid overwatering and potential root rot.

Light

The Squill benefits from being positioned in a space with bright, indirect light. It can handle some direct morning sunlight but should be protected from harsh afternoon sun, which could damage the foliage. A north or east-facing window would generally provide the ideal light conditions for this plant, ensuring that it receives sufficient light without the risk of leaf burn.

Temperature

Squill prefers a temperate range with daytime temperatures between 65 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit and cooler nighttime temperatures, not dropping below 50 degrees Fahrenheit. The plant is hardy and can endure brief periods of colder temperatures down to about 20 degrees Fahrenheit, but sustained cold or frost conditions can be damaging. The ideal temperature conditions maintain a gentle fluctuation between day and night times, without extreme changes.

Pruning

Pruning of Squill generally involves the removal of spent flower stems after blooming to maintain a tidy appearance and prevent the plant from wasting energy on seed production. It is best to prune back the stems down to the base of the plant. Additionally, after the leaves have died back naturally post-flowering, they can be gently removed as well. Pruning is not frequently required outside of this post-flowering maintenance.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

Scilla 'Valentine Day,' commonly known as squill, prefers a soil mix that is well-draining with a good amount of organic matter. A blend of loamy garden soil, peat moss, and perlite or sand is ideal, allowing for adequate drainage while retaining moisture. The soil pH should be slightly acidic to neutral, ranging from 6.0 to 7.0 for optimal growth.

Repotting

Squill, or Scilla 'Valentine Day,' typically does not require frequent repotting. These plants prefer to be slightly pot-bound and repotting is generally only necessary every 2 to 3 years to refresh the soil or if the bulbs have multiplied and become too crowded in their current container.

Humidity & Misting

Squill, also known as Scilla 'Valentine Day,' thrives best in moderate humidity conditions. The ideal humidity range for this plant is between 40% to 60%. High humidity levels are not required; consistent average room humidity is suitable for its growth.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Place in bright indirect light and ensure moderate humidity.

• Outdoor

  Plant in well-drained soil with partial to full sun exposure.

• Hardiness zone

  4-8 USDA

Life cycle

Scilla 'Valentine Day', commonly known as 'Valentine Day' Squill, begins its life cycle as a bulb planted in soil in late summer or autumn. In spring, the bulb produces foliage and flower spikes bearing star-shaped blue flowers, marking the active growth and flowering stage. After flowering, the plant enters a period of photosynthesis and energy storage, during which the foliage gathers energy before wilting away. Post-flowering, the bulb enters dormancy, typically in late spring or early summer, when above-ground parts die back. During dormancy, the bulb rests and conserves energy for the next growth cycle. The following spring, the cycle starts anew with the emergence of fresh foliage and blooms.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Spring

• The most popular method of propagating the Scilla 'Valentine Day', commonly known as the Squill, is by dividing its bulbs. This should be undertaken in the fall, when the plant is dormant after the leaves have died back. Carefully dig up the bulbs and gently separate the smaller bulblets that have formed around the base of the mother bulb. These bulblets can be replanted immediately at a depth of about 3 to 4 inches (approximately 7.5 to 10 centimeters) in well-draining soil. Ensure that they are spaced at least a few inches apart to allow for growth. Water the newly planted bulblets moderately to settle the soil around them and kickstart the growth process. It will take a season or two for these bulblets to mature into flowering plants.