Wintering Over of the Princess Lilies
Some tender perennials can’t winter in our extreme zones of Wisconsin, but with a little extra attention, they can survive for many years for our enjoyment. These sensitive perennials are those plants that need to be dug from the soil in the fall and wintered over in a frost-free location. Most well known examples are the gladioli, canna lily, dahlias, and begonias. Luckily we don't have to keep the entire plant, only the bulb, corm, or tuber which get stored. New growth occurs from these structures after replanting next spring.
Survival of these perennials requires more attention than simply digging the particular storage organ (root) and putting it in a box in the basement. Specific storage conditions must be met to successfully store the plants through the winter.
:arrow: Dig the perennials just before or soon after a killing frost. If left until after a frost, the foliage will be killed and the storage organ will need to be dug within a few days to prevent rot-causing organisms from entering through the damaged stem.
:arrow: To store these precious plants over the winter, trim back the foliage of the plant to within a few inches after the first light frost. Please make sure to dig carefully to avoid injury onto the plant. With some soil attached, pack the roots between 2 and 3 inch layers of vermiculite (perlite), peat moss, sawdust, or wood shavings. All Alstroemeria or Princess Lilies need to be stored between 35 to 45 degrees in cool, but dry locations. Make sure to check frequently for indication of rot and remove those rhizome tubers that are unhealthy.
:arrow: It is important to leave the tubers intact until spring for a better chance of survival through the winter storage. Remember any injury incurred prior to storage will increase the chances for rot to occur. In the spring cut the rhizomes or tubers apart making sure at least one or two dormant buds are present on each section. Share the extras with relatives, neighbors, and friends I’m sure they will adore the gift.
A major problem that homeowners have with storing these perennials is finding a suitable location with the correct temperature. Many of us no longer have unheated basements or an extra bedroom in which to store the tender perennials adequately. Normal interior home and apartment temperatures are too warm. Likewise most garages, even though attached, will be too cold for survival. I look forward to my Princess Lilies every year, some I will winter in my apartment as a whole plant but others I’m taking to a garage which has stored gladioli well in the past for years, its going to be my shot. Please feel free to add any comments or suggestions :!:
