When to plant
Plant Babiana bulbs in autumn, before the ground freezes, or in early spring if winters are mild. The goal is to allow roots time to develop before active growth begins.
Where to plant
Choose a sunny to lightly shaded position. Babiana blooms do best with plenty of light. The planting site must have excellent drainage—bulbs sited in damp, heavy soils may suffer from rot.
Preparing the soil
Loosen soil to a depth of around 15–20 cm. Remove stones, old roots, and compacted patches. Mix in compost or roasted organic matter to enrich the planting area. For heavy or clay soils, add grit or coarse sand to improve drainage and air movement.
Planting the bulbs
Set bulbs pointy end up, at a depth of approximately 5 to 8 cm. Space them about 7 to 10 cm apart to allow for good airflow and eventual expansion. In containers, use a deep pot and free-draining potting mix.
After planting
Water lightly to settle the soil. After that, keep the soil just moist until shoots begin to show. Avoid overwatering early, as excess moisture can promote rot.
During growth & blooming
As foliage and flower stalks appear, maintain moderate moisture and feed lightly with balanced fertilizer. Flowers open delicately, often nodding, and persist for a good period. Deadhead faded blooms to maintain a tidy display and encourage energy conservation for the bulb.
After blooming / end of season
Allow leaves to wither naturally; this is essential for bulbs to recharge. In colder climates, lift the bulbs once foliage has died back, dry gently, and store in a cool, dry place until the next planting. In milder zones, bulbs may remain in the ground with a layer of mulch protection.
Extra tips
Babiana looks stunning in drifts or mixed with other spring bulbs. Its subtle foliage allows other plants to peek through. Use in containers or raised beds to give control over drainage and temperature. If clumps become dense and flowering declines, divide during dormancy and remove weaker bulbs.
