Why Aren’t My Crocosmia Corms Growing?

Crocosmia corms can have issues with growth. We've got you covered if you wonder why your crocosmia corms are not growing. We have researched this issue, and here's what we discovered.

These are the reasons why your crocosmia Corms are not growing:

  1. Overwatering and underwatering
  2. Wrong amount of fertilizer
  3. Congested corms
  4. Lack of sunlight
  5. New environment
  6. Deeply planted

Learning the reasons why your plant is not growing will be helpful so you can avoid it in the future. There are methods you can try to improve their growth. This article will discuss why your crocosmia corms are not growing and what you can do about it. Keep reading to learn more.

Crocosmia Lucifer red Montbretia small genus of flowering plants in the iris family Iridaceae growing in a garden, Why Aren't My Crocosmia Corms Growing

Why Aren't My Crocosmia Corms Growing?

Crocosmia corms work well in various planting schemes and have brilliant colors such as oranges, yellows, and reds. They are great for your garden because they are bright and welcoming.

The beautiful deep orange flowers of Crocosmia 'Lucifer' a perennial plant also known as Monbretia.

However, instances may happen where you cannot see their vibrant colors due to their lack of growth. Below are the reasons why your crocosmia corms are not growing:

1. Overwatering and Underwatering

Both overwatering and underwatering can stress your crocosmia corms and affect their growth. Overwatering your plants can stop them from receiving enough oxygen, which can hinder them from growing.

If your crocosmia corms do not receive enough water, their roots will become mushy and may probably die.

2. Wrong Amount of Fertilizer

Applying too much fertilizer to your crocosmia corms can reduce their growth as they are known to be light feeders. On the other hand, if your crocosmia corms lack fertilizer, they will not thrive because they do not receive enough nutrients.

3. Congested Corms

Congested corms can prevent the plant from growing. This may happen anytime to your crocosmia corms as they usually need time to bloom and are exposed too long to the ground.

4. Lack of Sunlight

Sunlight is the source of energy for your crocosmia corms, and they need sunlight each day in order to thrive.

5. New Environment

Crocosmia corms typically take time to grow, especially if placed in new surroundings. They usually need to settle into their environment so they can thrive in the future.

6. Deeply Planted

Planting your crocosmia corms too deep can result in their becoming weak and failing to sprout.

How To Encourage Growth In Your Crocosmia Corms

There are practices you can try for helping your crocosmia corms to thrive. You do not need to worry because taking care of crocosmia corms is simple.

Here are the procedures you can try to make your crocosmia corms flourish:

1. Place in Full Sunlight

Crocosmia Lucifer red Montbretia small genus of flowering plants in the iris family Iridaceae growing in a garden

One of the factors that can help with the growth of your crocosmia corms is making sure they get plenty of sunlight. You should plant your crocosmia corms in an area that receives full sunlight.

If there are instances when the plants are in the shade, do not worry because crocosmia corms can tolerate a little shade. Additionally, you should ensure they are protected from strong winds and cold breezes because this can damage them.

2. Plant in Loam Soil

Loam in the hands of men for planting.

Choosing a location for your crocosmia corms with the appropriate soil is crucial. Choosing loam soil for your crocosmia corms can increase their growth because it can drain the water well and get nutrients to their roots.

Selecting soil that will not clog your plant is significant. It is best to use loam soil for effective drainage and to avoid root rot and fungal infection.

Image - Close up photo of young and small onions in rows. Onion plants growing in the clay soil in springtime on sunset. Onion is growing in the dark brown soil - beautiful blurred background

You may plant your crocosmia corms in denser soil, such as clay, but make sure to add grit in order for it to drain well.

3. Proper Planting

You should consider spacing and depth when you plant your crocosmia corms. It is advisable to plant them six to eight inches apart.

This will give the crocosmia corms enough space for their roots to grow, enough air circulation, and room to develop properly.

They may become overcrowded, and it can affect their growth if you do not allow enough spacing for each plant. 

In terms of depth, you should plant them at least three inches deep since they tend to rise to the surface over time.

4. Apply Enough Water

Hydration is essential for your crocosmia corms, especially during dry periods. Look out for newly planted crocosmia because they require regular watering.

You should use warm water and do not overwater the plants because they may die. With enough water, their roots will expand quickly and absorb more nutrients.

5. Add Compost to the Soil

Incorporating compost and manure into your soil can greatly help growth by adding nutrients. This can also balance the density of your soil, fight odors, and discourage weed growth.

It is advisable to add a two-inch layer of compost to your crocosmia corms.

Should You Fertilize Your Crocosmia Corms?

Crocosmia corms do not typically require fertilizer but applying one may improve their growth and appearance. Make sure you don't overdo it because it can reduce the growth of the flowers.

You may use an organic fertilizer to boost its nutrients.

Click here to see this organic natural plant food on Amazon.

Should You Prune Your Crocosmia Corms?

Pruning your crocosmia corms will not cause any harm. This method is advisable because it can remove dead areas, preserve the natural shape of the plant, and create room for new growth throughout the season.

You should use shears to cut away the stems and dead flower heads.

Click here to see these premium garden shears on Amazon.

Can You Place Crocosmia Corms In Pots?

You can grow your crocosmia corms in pots. It is advantageous to use pots because you can move them whenever and wherever you like. You can adjust to the needs of your crocosmia corms, especially when it comes to sunlight.

Make sure you use the appropriate soil and pots with good drainage. You may create holes yourself if you think that there are not enough. You can also add liquid fertilizer to the plants.

Click here to see this organic liquid fertilizer on Amazon.

When Should You Plant Crocosmia Corms?

The right season for planting is an important factor to consider for crocosmia corms. This factor affects the plant's growing conditions.

Crocosmia corms are best planted during mid to late summer. Their optimum months are July to August. You should avoid planting them during winter as they cannot withstand frost.

Do Crocosmia Corms Attract Pests And Diseases?

Crocosmia corms can get affected by pests and diseases, especially if there is too much moisture in the soil. Thus, it is really important to have good drainage.

Crocosmia corms can attract pests and diseases such as gladiolus rust and red spider mite. Symptoms to watch out for include yellow dots on the leaves.

These diseases may kill your plants, causing them to fall off early. You should remove the affected leaves immediately to prevent the spread of the disease.

Avoid using pesticides on crocosmia corms because they may contaminate the soil. It is best to spray the leaves with warm water to remove red spider mites.

How Long Can Crocosmia Corms Last?

The lifespan of your crocosmia corms will depend on how you care for them and how you keep up with their needs. You should learn about the things you need to avoid when growing the plants, so you don't harm them.

Your crocosmia corms can live an average of five to 20 years.

In Closing

There are reasons for nearly every issue with your crocosmia corms, and it is important to learn about them.

Typical causes for lack of growth in crocosmia corms include overwatering, underwatering, improper fertilization, and insufficient sunlight.

You should avoid these causes and practice methods that can help improve the growth of your crocosmia corms.

Before you go, visit the links below for some good reads on plant care and gardening:

My Lemon Tree Is Not Growing New Leaves – Why? What To Do?

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