Agapanthus Planting & Growing Guide

Where to Plant Agapanthus

Full sun and well-drained soil are the keys to success with these blooming beauties. While they will tolerate light shade, they tend to develop stronger stems in brighter light. The dramatic flowers make spectacular focal points in back borders and are wonderful container plants for pool or patio edges or around deck perimeters. They vary in their degree of winter hardiness based on the variety, but in areas colder than zone 8, Agapanthus are best grown in containers to be brought indoors during the winter.

When to Plant Agapanthus

Agapanthus planting is best performed in the fall or winter in warm climates, and in the spring after the danger of frost has passed in cool climates. The ravishing, spherical flower clusters will arrive in early to mid-summer.

How to Plant Agapanthus

• For container planting, select a pot with at least one drainage hole and fill with good quality, well-draining soil. Almost any commercially available potting mix will do the trick. Making sure the root crown is facing up and is level with the soil line, plant the bare roots as deep as needed and 12–24” apart, depending on the variety. Water thoroughly to settle the soil around the roots.
• For outdoor landscape planting, select a spot with well-drained soil where your Agapanthus will receive plenty of sunlight. Dig holes and plant the bare roots 1” deep (or as deep as needed) and 12–24” apart, depending on the variety, with the root crown facing up and level with the soil line. Water thoroughly.

How to Grow Agapanthus

• Water in the spring and summer at a rate of about 1” of water a week to keep the soil lightly moist.
• Allow the soil to dry out in the fall and winter.
• Leave the foliage in place after blooming has finished for the season. The leaves will gather sunlight to create food through photosynthesis, strengthening the plant for the future.
• Remove the foliage when the leaves turn yellow and die back in the fall to give your Agapanthus a clean slate before beginning the next growing cycle.

Agapanthus Tips & Tricks

• Amend soil with compost, finely ground bark, or composted manure as needed to avoid water-logging your plant.
• Expect roots and top growth to emerge a few weeks after planting.
• Snip a few of these brilliant blooms for striking arrangements.
• Protect your plant in cooler regions with a heavy layer of mulch around the root zone.