Here’s another beauty that hails all the way from South America! Usually, when we hear “tropical origin,” we immediately think these plants won’t stand a chance against a chilly northern winter. So, what’s the deal with the Mexican Starflower (Milla biflora) and frost? Let’s dive in and see if your hunch is right.
Can the Starflower Handle the Cold?
The short answer? Not really. The Starflower can only survive outdoors in very mild regions, and even then, you’ve got to go all out with winter protection. We’re talking about mounding up the soil over the bulbs and adding a thick layer of mulch, leaves, or evergreen branches. Even with all that effort, there’s no 100% guarantee. One unexpected deep freeze and this South American native is history.
Digging Up Bulbs in the Fall
If you live somewhere with harsh winters, leaving the bulbs in the ground is a big no-no. Honestly, even if you live in a milder climate, I’d recommend digging them up just to be safe. It’s the best way to ensure your garden stars return next year.
Step-by-Step: Prepping for Winter Storage
Getting your Starflowers ready for their winter nap actually starts in late summer. Here’s how to do it right:
- Stop fertilizing your Starflowers starting in July.
- Gradually cut back on watering as the season winds down.
- Get them out of the flower bed before the first frost hits.
- Trim off the dead flower stalks.
- Gently brush away any excess soil with a soft brush.
- Pro tip: Don’t wash the bulbs! Moisture is the enemy here and can lead to rot.
- Let the bulbs air-dry for a few days before storing.
The Perfect Winter Home for Your Bulbs
Once they’re dry, place your bulbs in a dark, cool spot. You can spread them out on a wire rack (make sure they aren’t touching!) or tuck them into a box of dry sand. The sweet spot for temperature is between 40°F and 45°F (5–8 °C). Every now and then, give them a little turn and check for any mold or pests. If you see a “bad apple,” toss it out so it doesn’t spoil the rest!
Don’t Forget Your Potted Plants!
Because they aren’t frost-hardy, many of us love growing Starflowers in containers. If you have the space, just bring the whole pot inside before the first frost. Just cut back the foliage first. If you’re tight on space, go ahead and dig the bulbs out of the pot and store them using the same method we used for the garden bulbs.
Quick Tip:
Don’t be in too much of a hurry to replant in the spring! Wait until April. They won’t start sprouting much earlier anyway, and you’ll protect them from those sneaky late-season frosts.