Curtonus Crocosmia hybrids

Crocosmia hybrids will be at their best when located in a sunny spot.  It will grow in a location with some shade, however, flower production will be diminished.   Where the summer temperatures are extremely hot, some afternoon shade is welcomed.  Water weekly during the summer months to keep the soil moist.  

New blooms will be encouraged by deadheading.  Allow the foliage to remain after flowering is finished.  This will help energize the bulb in preparation for the next year's flowering.  By leaving the foliage, photosynthesis will take place, providing energy to the bulb.  Once the leaves die in the later part of the year, the entire plant can be cut to the ground.  

Division in the late summer to early fall will also increase flower production.  This division should take plant every 3 to 4 years.  

Uses include beds, borders, and fresh-cut flowers; tolerates drought, but keep moist during growing season;  Plant to a depth of 5 in. to base of the corm, 2 in. apart, 20 plants per sq. ft.; Semi-hardy, injured below 28 degrees F (-2 degrees C)  In colder climates, the bulbs can be removed from the ground in the fall and replanted in the spring.

Used in container arrangements as a centerpiece, or as the 'thriller' in a thriller, filler, spiller container.

Insects, Diseases, and Other Plant Problems:  No serious disease issues.  Spider mites are a common problem.  They can be controlled by hoses down your plants a few times each week.