The Star of Bethlehem’s dormant phase kicks off once those leaves start yellowing and eventually dry up. When it comes to getting your plants through the winter, the “how-to” really depends on which variety you’re growing. Some hardy types can stay outdoors with a little extra protection, while the more sensitive varieties need to be moved indoors before the first frost hits.
Hardy Varieties – Protection with Mulch
The Common Star of Bethlehem (Ornithogalum Umbellatum) is a tough cookie, capable of handling temperatures down to -4 degrees Fahrenheit. Even so, these plants will definitely appreciate a cozy “blanket” of dry leaves or evergreen branches. One thing they absolutely hate, though, is “wet feet.” If your soil tends to stay soggy during the winter, you’re better off carefully digging up the bulbs and storing them inside to prevent rot.
To overwinter outdoors, make sure to:
- Trim away any withered leaves
- Cover hardy plants with a protective layer of mulch or brush
- Avoid areas with standing water or overly damp soil
Frost-Sensitive Varieties – Keep ‘Em Cool and Dry
Unlike their hardier cousins, varieties like the Sun Star (Ornithogalum dubium) with its gorgeous orange blooms can’t handle the freeze. You’ll need to move these indoors for the winter. You can either leave the bulbs right in their pots or dig them up to store them “naked” during their rest period.
Overwintering in Pots
If you’re keeping them in their containers, move the pot to a dark, dry, and cool spot. Stop fertilizing entirely. Every once in a while, give the soil a light misting with water just to keep things from bone-drying.
Storing the Bulbs
If you prefer to store the bulbs without the pot, the process is pretty similar. Once the foliage has died back, clean the dirt off the bulbs and store them in a cool, dark, and dry place. Just like the potted version, give them a light spray of water occasionally so they don’t shrivel up. Come springtime, you can tuck them back into some fresh soil.
The Quick Cheat Sheet:
- Remove all withered leaves
- Clean the soil off the bulbs
- Store bulbs or pots in a cool, dark, and dry location
- Mist occasionally with a little water