How to grow Nerines

Types of Nerine bulbs to grow

There are nearly 30 different species of Nerine plants, but only some of these are available commercially and there only a few that grow well in the UK and only really one variety, Nerine Bowdenii, is fully hardy to be left out all year.

Although only distantly related to lilies, some of the common names for Nerine include Autumn lily, Guernsey lily, Jersey lily, and Spider lily! However, Nerines are not true lilies, but the flowers are quite similar. Like lilies, the trumpet shaped flowers are arranged in a strappy, loose umbrella shape.

A variety well suited to the cool British climate is Nerine bowdenii. Also known as Cornish lily, Cape flower, and Bowden lily. Popular cultivars include ‘Isabel’ and 'Zeal Giant’. Growing to 45cm (18") tall, the shocking pink flowers have ruffled tips and a mild scent.

Other species of Nerine which need protection in colder weather include:

• Nerine krigei, or corkscrew Nerine and Curly leaved Nerine. Rose pink flowers with petals and foliage which is gently curled.
• Nerine masoniorum, or Mason’s nerine. A small species with very fine, erect pink petals.
• Nerina sarniensis spp. The national flower of Guernsey, most cultivars of this species have a bold salmon pink to deep red flower.
• Nerine undulata spp., sometimes labelled as Nerine flexuosa. ‘Alba’ is a particular favourite, with late white flowers that are crinkled at the tips, and narrow, strappy foliage. It flowers a little later than other species, in late autumn and early winter.

There are a number of hybrid species available where a Nerine has been genetically crossed with an Amaryllis. These are known as Amarines, but are a separate genus to the true Nerine.

What you’ll need to grow Nerine bulbs

You will need:

• Gloves.
• Peat free multi purpose compost such as Miracle-Gro® Peat Free Premium All Purpose Compost.
• Horticultural grit or sand.
• A pot which is 10cm (4") or more in diameter.

How to plant Nerine bulbs in pots

Nerine bowdenii can be planted straight into a border, and simply covered with 5cm (2") of compost or mulch. We recommend planting other Nerine species in pots. This means that they can easily be moved to a protective environment, such as a conservatory or greenhouse, before cold winter weather arrives.

1. Always wear gloves when handling Nerine bulbs and compost.
2. Mix together the general purpose compost with horticultural grit or sand, at a rate of about ¼ compost to ¾ grit or sand.
3. Loosely fill the pot with the compost. Place the Nerine bulb deep enough that the tip is just below the surface of the compost. Plant each about 10cm (4") apart.
4. Add more compost to ensure a snug fit for the bulb, and water well.

Nerine bulbs need at least two years before they will begin to produce flowers, so be patient!

When to plant Nerine bulbs

Nerine bulbs are best planted in late summer.

Where to plant and place your Nerine bulbs

Nerines are native to countries in Southern Africa and will thrive in similar growing conditions. Make sure it’s hot and sunny, and that they can be protected from frost. Nerine Bowdenii is winter hardy but will flower better if allowed to bake in the sun.

Position the Nerine where it can enjoy full sun and where there is protection from cooling winds. They do not like to be moved, so plant it somewhere it can stay. Gritty well-drained soil is ideal.

Nerines enjoy being crowded with one another, so do not be tempted to thin the bulbs unless dividing to propagate more plants.

Caring and nurturing your Nerine bulbs

Nerines are fairly low maintenance. Ensure they receive lots of bright, direct sunlight.

Nerine bowdenii is known to be unusually tolerant of cold temperatures, but other species must be given protection. While Nerine bowdenii does not need to be given protection, it will benefit from having a thick layer of mulch applied after flowering, such as Miracle-Gro® Peat Free Premium Fibre Smart™ Mulch.

Feed Nerine bulbs monthly from January to April with a phosphorous rich fertiliser, such as Levington® Tomorite Organic Concentrate.

Water weekly from mid-summer onwards, and stop when the foliage starts to yellow and die back.

Cut fresh flower stalks from September to November to bring into the home. They are renowned for being long lasting, so expect to enjoy them for up to a couple of weeks.

Deadhead to remove old flowers throughout the autumn. Prune once flowering has finished, usually in December, by removing dead foliage.

Propagate by dividing every 2-3 years. Dig up a plant in the summer, and break the clump into smaller sections, and replant into new pots. Do not do this any more frequently as Nerines do not like their soil to be disturbed. Nerine bulbs can be bought from the shop later in the summer and should be planted straight away.

Common pests and diseases with Nerine bulbs

Nerines are largely unaffected by pests and diseases. The main pest to look out for are Mealybugs on indoor-grown species, which can cause stunted growth and look rather unsightly. Look out for fluffy white lumps, sticky patches and black sooty mould on the leaves.

Isolate the plant so that it does not spread, remove and destroy affected parts of the plant. For persistent infestations, spray using the BugClear™ Ultra Gun!

Frequently asked questions about Nerine bulbs

Are Nerines poisonous?

Nerines can cause a minor stomach upset if ingested, so always wear gloves when handling, and wash your hands after touching them.

Why is my Nerine not flowering?

Nerine bulbs need at least two years to develop enough to be able to produce flowers, so do not expect them to produce much colour at first. If the Nerine is more mature, it may be that it is not receiving enough direct sunlight.

Why is my Nerine producing lots of green growth, but no flowers?

A mature Nerine may grow lots of lush greenery if the soil is too rich. Nerines enjoy quite poor soil, so do not over-feed them.

Are Nerine bulbs hardy?

Nerine bowdenii will withstand frosts, but all other species of Nerine are frost tender, and not hardy.

Key features of Nerines