Agapanthus, Galaxy Blue

Agapanthus: Bare Root Perennial and Potted Plant

Planting Bare Root Plants:

• Choose a location in full sun with a rich, well-drained soil.
• Prepare the bed by turning the soil under to a depth of 6-12 inches removing any debris, and lightly raking as level as possible.
• The addition of organic matter (leaf mold, compost, well-rotted manure) benefits all gardens and is essential in recently constructed neighborhoods.
• Dig a hole deep and wide enough to accommodate the bare root.
• Plant them so the tops of the roots are just below the surface.
• Fill in and around the root with soil until the hole is filled.
• Firm the soil and water well to fully saturate the roots and soil.
• Space agapanthus about 24 inches apart.

Planting Plotted Plants in the Garden:

• Select a location in full sun with good rich moist organic soil. 
• Prepare the bed by turning the soil under to a depth of 6-12 inches removing any debris, and lightly raking as level as possible.
• The addition of organic matter (leaf mold, compost, well-rotted manure) benefits all gardens and is essential in recently constructed neighborhoods.
• Plant on a cloudy day or in late afternoon to reduce transplant shock.
• Dig a hole for each plant large enough to amply accommodate the root ball. 
• Unpot the plant and gently loosen the root ball with your hands to encourage good root growth. 
• Place the top of the root ball even with the level of the surrounding soil. Fill with soil to the top of the root ball. Press soil down firmly with your hand. 
• Use the plant tag as a location marker. 
• Thoroughly water and apply a light mulch layer on top of the soil (1-2 inches) to conserve water and reduce weeds.
• Space agapanthus plants 24 inches apart.

How to Grow

• Keep weeds under control during the growing season. Weeds compete with plants for water, space and nutrients, so control them by either cultivating often or use a mulch to prevent their germination. 
• Mulches also help retain soil moisture and maintain even soil temperatures. For perennials, an organic mulch of aged bark or shredded leaves lends a natural look to the bed and will improve the soil as it breaks down in time. Always keep mulches off a plant’s stems to prevent possible rot.
• Careful watering is essential in getting perennials off to a good start. Water thoroughly at least once a week to help new roots grow down deeply. Soil should be damp at about 1 inch below the soil surface. You can check this by sticking your finger in the soil. Water early in the morning to give all leaves enough time to dry. One inch of rain or watering per week is recommended for most perennial plants. You can check to see if you need to add water by using a rain gauge.
• Until plants become established, some protection from extreme winds and direct, hot sunlight may be necessary. Good air movement is also important.
• After new growth appears, a light fertilizer may be applied. Keep granular fertilizers away from the plant crown and foliage to avoid burn injury. Use low rates of a slow release fertilizer, higher rates may encourage root rots. Do not fertilizer in the fall.
• Remove and discard foliage after a hard frost in fall
• Evergreen boughs (from Christmas trees) provide additional protection. Remove this mulch in the spring.
• In general agapanthus do not require division. They blossom more freely when crowded, their roots should be disturbed as little as possible.