Growing Nerines - A New Zealand Classic
Nerines are a true classic in the world of gardening, and like many "old-fashioned" varieties, they've been a bit hard to find in recent years. However, behind the scenes, we've been hard at work to bring these stunning flowers back into the spotlight. After years of dedication and effort, we are thrilled to unveil our most impressive range of Nerines yet! Prepare for a bounty of gorgeous blooms, including new varieties and old favourites.
The Return of Nerines
Nerines are not just pretty; they have a rich history and were once a staple in many gardens. These remarkable cut flower varieties were popularised in the export market, with my dad growing plenty of them back in the day. With their stunning starburst-shaped blooms, it's no wonder that these beauties are making a comeback!
One of the best things about Nerines is their incredible vase life. Once cut, they can last for weeks, making them a fantastic choice for any floral arrangement.
Growing Nerines: A Quick Guide
Nerines are easy to grow, have low maintenance, and are spectacular flower shows when planted in groups. If you're eager to grow your own Nerines, here's what you need to know:
- Location: Nerines thrive in hot and dry conditions, preferring full sun.
- Soil: They require sandy, well-drained soil to flourish.
- Planting: Plant your Nerines as soon as you receive them, leaving the neck of the bulb above the soil surface.
- Watering: Water lightly to prevent rot.
Nerines make exceptional cut flowers. To harvest them, cut the stems while leaving about 5-10 cm on the plant, preferably in the morning when the blooms still need to fully open. Remember to keep them in cool water and away from direct sunlight to maximize their vase life.
After flowering, it's best to leave Nerines undisturbed in the ground, allowing them to bulk up over the years. Eventually, you can dig them up, split the bulbs, and replant them to enjoy even more blooms!
For a complete overview of how to plant nerines, visit our Nerine Planting Guide.
Introducing Amarines: A Beautiful Hybrid
We're incredibly excited to announce that we've finally secured some Amarines! These stunning hybrids, a cross between a Nerine and an Amaryllis, offer the best of both worlds. Amarines boast taller, sturdier stems reminiscent of the Amaryllis, paired with the delightful recurved petals of a Nerine. Their unique features are sure to pique your interest.
These beauties are visually striking, incredibly hardy, and lightly scented, making them an excellent addition to any garden or floral arrangement. Their unique structure and long-lasting nature also make them a top-notch cut flower.
Why Choose Nerines and Amarines?
With their stunning aesthetics and fantastic vase life, both Nerines and Amarines are perfect for anyone looking to enhance their garden or brighten their living space. They're easy to grow, hardy and low maintenance - what more could you ask for!
So, what are you waiting for? Browse our Nerines today and pick out some of these beauties for yourself!
