Crocosmia (also known as Montbretia) is one of those classic ornamental plants that has stood the test of time, and for good reason! They are still a huge favorite in home gardens today. To get those stunning, fiery blooms we all love, you need to focus on two things: proper care and, more importantly, the right spot in your yard. If you pick the perfect location, your Crocosmia can actually stay tucked in the ground all year round.
Finding the Perfect Spot
Generally speaking, Crocosmia isn’t too picky, but there are a few “must-haves” to keep them happy. When you’re scouting out a place in your garden, look for somewhere that is:
- Bright but with indirect light or partial shade
- Sheltered from harsh winds
- Filled with loose, well-draining soil
Bright Light and Shelter
While these plants love light, they actually prefer a spot with filtered sun or partial shade. Try to avoid placing them where they’ll get baked by the intense direct midday sun, as they don’t always handle extreme heat well. It’s also a good idea to protect them from heavy downpours and strong gusts of wind. Your best bet? Plant them near taller perennials, or alongside a house wall or garden fence for a little extra protection.
Loose, Nutrient-Rich Soil
When it comes to dirt, Crocosmia likes it rich and airy. Ideally, you want soil that is moist and full of organic matter (humus). The biggest “no-no” is standing water. If the roots sit in soggy soil for too long, they’ll rot pretty quickly, and you’ll lose the whole plant.
If your garden has heavy, dense clay soil, don’t worry! Just mix in some sand or fine gravel before planting to help improve the drainage and keep things loose.
Avoid Cold and Deep Shade
Steer clear of spots that are too chilly, dark, or drafty. Crocosmia won’t be happy there, and they’ll show their frustration by growing poorly or—even worse—refusing to bloom at all.
Growing Crocosmia in Containers
The great news is that Crocosmia does wonderfully in pots and planters! The same rules for sunlight apply here, but you’ll need to be extra careful about drainage. To make sure your plants don’t get “wet feet,” add a layer of gravel, expanded clay pebbles, or broken terracotta shards to the bottom of the pot before filling it with a high-quality, loose potting mix.
Winter Location Tips
In many regions, Crocosmia is moderately hardy. If they are in a sheltered spot and you give them a little extra winter protection (like a thick layer of mulch), they can usually handle temperatures down to about 10°F right in the garden. However, if you’re growing them in containers, it’s usually safest to move them into a protected area like a garage or basement for the winter.
