British gardener Tom Strowlger has named Crocosmia as the 'perfect plant' for sunny borders in mid to late summer. The flame-coloured flower petals grow from a fishbone pattern of buds on a thin but strong stem, making it eye-catching in the garden.
Planting and Growing Crocosmia
The corms of Crocosmia, often called bulbs, should be planted in early spring to allow time to establish roots and grow to flower in mid to late summer. Plant them in 10cm deep holes in well-drained soil and a spot with full sun in spring and summer. The corms are best planted in close clumps, as they look best as a group and also help support each other when fully grown.
The green foliage is first out of the ground, with sword-shaped leaves which are sharp to the touch. The green foliage will die back in autumn and winter, and can be cut back ready for the plant to return the following year.
Support and Display
The plants should be supported with cane and twine if they become top-heavy and start to droop; this will prevent the flowers from collapsing to the ground. The yellow, orange and red flowers are some of the brightest in the garden. A display of Crocosmia along the edge of a garden is striking and happy to grow near other plants.
Long-Term Care
It is ideal that the plant is allowed to establish over the years and not be transplanted as they multiply to produce larger flower displays. According to Strowlger, Crocosmia is perfect for a sunny spot in a border.
For those interested in ordering Crocosmia, visit www.thompson-morgan.com and use promo code TMTAWTOM12 to get 12% off orders of £20 or more. Follow Tom Strowlger on Instagram, TikTok and YouTube @garden_with_tom for more seasonal gardening advice.
