Oxalis
Planting:
Planting Oxalis bulbs is a simple and delightful way to add a touch of whimsy to your garden or home. Choose a location with well-draining soil and partial to full sunlight, as Oxalis thrives in bright but not overly hot conditions. Plant the bulbs in the spring, placing them about 1 to 2 inches deep and 3 to 4 inches apart, with the pointed end facing upwards. If planting in containers, ensure they have good drainage holes. Water the bulbs lightly after planting to settle the soil. Oxalis prefers evenly moist soil but is tolerant of short dry periods. Keep the soil slightly moist, but be cautious of overwatering, as this can lead to bulb rot. No need for heavy fertilization; a light feeding with a balanced, all-purpose fertilizer at the start of the growing season can suffice. With minimal care, your Oxalis will soon sprout, displaying its charming foliage and delicate flowers, adding a vibrant touch to your garden or indoor space.
Once They're Growing:
Once your Oxalis bulbs have started growing, they require minimal care to flourish. Ensure they receive adequate sunlight; a spot with partial to full sunlight is ideal, though they can tolerate some shade. Water the plants regularly to keep the soil consistently moist, but be cautious not to overwater, as Oxalis does not like soggy soil. Allow the topsoil to dry out slightly between waterings. Oxalis typically doesn't require a lot of fertilizer, but a light application of a balanced, all-purpose fertilizer in the early growing season can promote healthier growth and more vibrant blooms. If you’re growing Oxalis indoors, rotate the pot periodically to ensure even light exposure. Deadhead spent flowers to encourage new blooms and maintain a neat appearance. Oxalis bulbs often go dormant in the summer, during which you should reduce watering until new growth appears again, usually in fall. This easy-going nature makes Oxalis a delightful addition to both indoor and outdoor gardens, offering a charming display of foliage and flowers with minimal effort.
Care:
Caring for Oxalis is relatively straightforward, making it a great plant for both experienced and novice gardeners. Oxalis prefers a location with partial to full sunlight, though it can tolerate some shade, which makes it versatile for different garden spots or indoor locations. Water the plant regularly to keep the soil consistently moist, but avoid overwatering, as Oxalis does not thrive in waterlogged soil. Allow the top inch of soil to dry out before watering again. While Oxalis isn’t a heavy feeder, a light application of a balanced, all-purpose fertilizer in the early growing season can encourage more robust growth and flowering. If you’re growing Oxalis indoors, rotate the pot occasionally to ensure the plant gets even light. Deadhead the spent blooms to promote continued flowering and to keep the plant looking tidy. Many Oxalis varieties go through a dormant period, often in summer, where they die back. During this time, reduce watering and allow the plant to rest. When new growth appears, usually in the fall, resume normal care. This easy-to-care-for nature, along with its attractive foliage and delicate flowers, makes Oxalis a charming addition to any plant collection.
Storage:
Storing Oxalis bulbs (often referred to as corms) during their dormant period is an important step to ensure their longevity and continued growth in the next season. After the foliage of the Oxalis has died back, usually signaling the start of dormancy, gently dig up the bulbs, if they are not in a container. Clean them by brushing off any soil, and let them dry in a cool, well-ventilated area for a few days. Once dried, store the bulbs in a mesh bag or paper bag in a cool, dry place, such as a basement, garage, or a dark cupboard. The ideal storage temperature is cool but not freezing. Check the bulbs periodically during storage for signs of rot or drying out and remove any that are damaged. This method of storage allows the bulbs to remain dormant and prevents them from rotting or drying out excessively, ensuring they are ready to be replanted and thrive in the next growing season.
