Tritonias - Mixed - 25 bulbs p-pack

Tritonia, commonly known as "Flame Freesia", is a vibrant and hardy bulbous plant that thrives in the mild winters and spring seasons of South Africa. The Tritonia Mix offers a beautiful range of colors, including shades of red, orange, yellow, and pink, adding a burst of color to gardens, flower beds, and containers. This flowering plant is well-suited to South African conditions and is relatively easy to grow with minimal care.

1. Best Growing Conditions

Climate:

• Tritonias are best suited to mild winter and cool spring temperatures (around 15—20°C).

• Ideal for planting in autumn (March—May) for spring flowering (August—October).

• Best suited for regions with cool winters like the Western Cape and Highveld areas.

• Hot summers can be challenging, so it's important to plant in well-drained soil and avoid excessive heat exposure.

Soil Requirements:

• Prefers well-draining, sandy-loam or loamy soil to avoid waterlogging, which can lead to bulb rot.

• pH level: 6.0—7.0 (slightly acidic to neutral).

• Amend heavy clay soils by mixing in organic matter or sand to improve drainage.

2. Planting Tritonia Mix

Best Planting Time:

• Autumn (March—May) for spring blooms (August—October).

• Plant when the soil temperature is below 20°C, which is typical for autumn planting.

Preparing the Bulbs:

• Soak the bulbs in lukewarm water for about 2—4 hours before planting to promote sprouting.

• Let the bulbs dry slightly after soaking to prevent fungal growth.

Planting Depth & Spacing:

• Depth: Plant bulbs 5—7 cm deep with the pointed end facing up.

• Spacing: Space bulbs 10—15 cm apart to allow for optimal growth and airflow.

• Row spacing: Leave 20—30 cm between rows for proper circulation and to reduce the risk of fungal infections.

3. Watering & Care

Watering:

• Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged during the growing season.

• Water deeply once or twice a week depending on the weather, ensuring the soil is not left soggy.

• Reduce watering when the foliage starts to die back, indicating the plant has gone into dormancy (around late spring).

Fertilizing:

• Before planting, mix organic compost or well-rotted manure into the soil.

• Apply a balanced fertilizer (NPK 10-10-10) or one that is higher in phosphorus to promote flowering.

• Fertilize every 4—6 weeks during the growing season for a stronger flower display.

Mulching:

• Apply a thin layer of mulch around the bulbs to help conserve moisture and suppress weeds, but avoid heavy mulching that could suffocate the bulbs.

4. Pest & Disease Management

Common Pests:

• Aphids, thrips, and spider mites — Use neem oil or insecticidal soap to control pests.

• Slugs and snails — Protect bulbs with organic slug pellets or copper tape to prevent damage.

Common Diseases:

• Botrytis (gray mold) — Improve air circulation by spacing plants appropriately and avoid watering over the foliage.

• Root rot — Ensure the soil is well-drained and avoid overwatering, especially in winter months.

5. Flowering & Cutting for Arrangements

Blooming Time:

• Tritonia Mix blooms in early spring, usually 8—12 weeks after planting (from August to October).

• The flowers will last for several weeks, adding a stunning splash of color to your garden.

Cutting for Bouquets:

• Cut flowers when they are just beginning to open to maximize their vase life.

• Use sharp scissors or pruning shears to avoid damaging the plant.

• Place cut flowers in cool water immediately to extend their freshness.

• Tritonias make excellent cut flowers, and their blooms last 7—10 days in a vase.

6. Storing Bulbs for Next Season

• After flowering, allow the foliage to die back naturally to ensure the bulbs store energy for next season.

• Dig up the bulbs once the foliage has yellowed and dried, and allow them to dry completely in a cool, dry location.

• Store the bulbs in a paper bag or cardboard box in a cool, dark, and dry place until autumn.

• Replant in autumn for the next season's flowers.

7. Companion Planting & Crop Rotation

Good Companion Plants:

• Tulips, daffodils, and freesias complement Tritonias in spring displays.

• Low-growing...