Agapanthus after flowering – how to care for agapanthus properly
Agapanthus delights in summer with its elegant flower heads. But after flowering, the question arises: What to do with agapanthus? With the right care, you can prepare the plant optimally for winter and the next flowering season.
Pruning agapanthus after flowering
Regularly remove the faded stems. Cut them off directly at the base so that the plant does not put any energy into seed formation. However, leave the leaves in place – they are important for the plant to gather energy for the next year.
Pruning agapanthus after flowering
Regularly remove the faded stems. Cut them off directly at the base so that the plant does not put any energy into seed formation. However, leave the leaves in place – they are important for the plant to gather energy for the next year.
Distinguishing between evergreen and deciduous agapanthus species
There are two main groups of agapanthus:
- Evergreen agapanthus (Agapanthus africanus and varieties): These retain their foliage even in winter. The leaves must not be cut back as they are important for the plant’s energy supply.
- Deciduous agapanthus (Agapanthus campanulatus and varieties): These die back completely in autumn. Here, you can cut back the yellowed leaves.
This distinction is crucial for proper overwintering.
African lily in winter quarters – what to do if it is still flowering?
Sometimes the African lily even blooms in its winter quarters. Cut off the flower stems as usual after flowering. However, leave the foliage in place, as the plant continues to gather strength through its leaves even in winter.
Overwintering agapanthus correctly
Agapanthus is not hardy in all regions. Here’s how to proceed:
- Evergreen agapanthus: overwinter them in a bright, cool place at 5 to 10 °C. Make sure they do not dry out completely, but avoid waterlogging.
- Deciduous agapanthus: they can be overwintered in a dark and cool place (close to 0 to 5 °C) as they lose their leaves. Water sparingly to protect the roots from drying out.
In mild regions with frost-free locations, deciduous species can also be overwintered outdoors if they are covered with foliage or brushwood. Evergreen agapanthus, however, should always be kept frost-free.
Agapanthus after winter dormancy
In spring, it is time to put the agapanthus back outside. First place them in a sheltered, semi-shaded location before moving them into full sun after the last frost. From this point on, they will appreciate regular watering and fertilising.
FAQ – Frequently asked questions about agapanthus after flowering
Should agapanthus be cut back after flowering?
Yes, you should cut off the faded flower stems directly at the base. This saves the plant energy that it would otherwise put into seed formation. However, the leaves remain intact.
When should you cut back the leaves of agapanthus?
Only deciduous species (e.g. Agapanthus campanulatus) may be cut back in autumn once the leaves have turned yellow and withered. Evergreen agapanthus retain their foliage and should not be cut back.
What to do with agapanthus that flower in their winter quarters?
If the agapanthus is still flowering in its winter quarters, you can remove the flowers as usual after they have wilted. However, the leaves must remain as they continue to supply the plant with energy.
How do you overwinter agapanthus correctly?
- Evergreen agapanthus: Store in a bright, cool place at 5–10 °C and water moderately.
- Deciduous agapanthus: Store in a cool, dark place at 0–5 °C and keep almost dry.
Are agapanthus hardy?
Deciduous agapanthus can overwinter outdoors in mild regions with protection (leaves or brushwood). Evergreen agapanthus are not hardy and must be kept frost-free in their winter quarters.
How often do agapanthus flower?
Under good conditions, agapanthus flower once a year in summer. With proper care after flowering and good overwintering, you can extend the flowering period.