Caring for African Lily

Agapanthus has moderate water needs and prefers to be kept on the dry side rather than too wet. Water regularly during the growing season from late spring through summer, especially during dry spells, to support the development of those tall flower stems. Once established, the plants are fairly drought-tolerant, but prolonged dryness will reduce flowering. In autumn and winter, cut back watering significantly—overwatering during dormancy is the quickest way to rot the fleshy roots, particularly in heavy soils. Feed your agapanthus in April, May, and June to fuel strong growth and abundant blooms. Use a balanced liquid fertiliser or a slow-release granular feed high in potassium (such as a tomato fertiliser) to encourage flowering rather than excessive leaf growth. Apply according to the manufacturer's instructions, and stop feeding by the end of June so the plant can harden off before winter. Hardiness is borderline in much of temperate Europe. Agapanthus africanus is rated for zone 8a and above, so it will survive outdoors in milder areas of the UK, Ireland, and the Low Countries, but needs protection in colder winters. In October, apply a deep mulch of straw, bracken, or dry leaves over the crown, held in place with netting or fleece if necessary. Remove the mulch in April once the risk of severe frost has passed. In colder gardens or exposed sites, grow agapanthus in pots that can be moved into a frost-free greenhouse or shed over winter. Pests are rarely a problem, but slugs and snails may damage emerging shoots in spring. Agapanthus is generally disease-free if drainage is good.