Overview
Nerine bowdenii Watson subsp. wellsii C.A.Norris is a species of flowering plant in the Amaryllidaceae family. It is commonly known as Wells' nerine and is native to South Africa.
Appearance
The plant grows from bulbs and produces long, narrow leaves that can reach up to 60 cm in length. The flowering stems are tall, reaching up to 60 cm and are topped with clusters of pink or red flowers. The flowers are trumpet-shaped and have six petals arranged in two layers.
Uses
Nerine bowdenii Watson subsp. wellsii C.A.Norris is commonly grown as an ornamental plant in gardens, where it adds a splash of color in late summer and autumn when it blooms. It is also a popular cut flower for floral arrangements and can last for up to two weeks when cut.
Light Requirements
The Nerine bowdenii Watson subsp. wellsii C.A.Norris, commonly known as the Wells' Nerine, prefers bright light but not direct sunlight. It thrives well indoors in a bright location with access to filtered light. For outdoor cultivation, place the plant in a partially shaded area since intense heat and sunlight can damage the leaves.
Temperature Requirements
The Wells' Nerine thrives well in moderate to slightly cool temperatures. Generally, it prefers temperatures of between 15 to 30 degrees Celsius (60 to 85 degrees Fahrenheit). The plant requires a cool, dry resting period of about 8 to 12 weeks during winter dormancy to thrive well. During dormancy, reduce watering altogether and keep the plant at a cool temperature of between 13 to 15 degrees Celsius (55 to 60 degrees Fahrenheit).
Soil Requirements
The Wells' Nerine typically requires sandy, well-drained soil with ample organic matter. The soil pH should be slightly acidic, ranging between 5.5 to 6.5 for optimal growth. It's ideal to plant the Wells' Nerine in pots, hanging baskets, or containers with adequate drainage systems. A recommended combination of soil ingredients for growing the plant includes sand, peat moss and perlite.
Cultivation
Nerine bowdenii Watson subsp. wellsii is a beautiful plant that can brighten any garden with its bright pink flowers during the autumn season. It is a hardy plant that can tolerate a variety of conditions, but it still has its preferred growing conditions that you may want to follow. It prefers well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. The plant grows best in full sun but can also withstand partial shade.
Before planting this bulb, you need to prepare the soil by adding compost or well-rotted manure to enhance its nutrient content. Remember to fertilize the soil and dig a hole about 8 inches deep for the bulb.
Watering Needs
Nerine bowdenii Watson subsp. wellsii enjoys moderate watering. It is essential to keep the soil sufficiently moist to prevent the bulb from drying out. During the growing season, water the plant once a week but be careful not to waterlog the soil. When the plant is getting ready for the dormant season, reduce the watering frequency to once every two weeks until the leaves start to yellow and wither.
Fertilization
Fertilizing this plant helps enhance its growth and overall health. Use a balanced fertilizer with an NPK ratio of 10:10:10 during the growing season, ideally once a month. Alternatively, you can incorporate a slow-release fertilizer into the soil when planting the bulb.
Pruning
Nerine bowdenii Watson subsp. wellsii requires minimal pruning. Deadheading the flowers as they fade is enough to keep the plant looking neat and tidy. Once the bloom period ends, trim back the yellow and withered leaves to prevent them from acting as a harbor for diseases.
Propagation of Nerine bowdenii Watson subsp. wellsii C.A.Norris
Nerine bowdenii Watson subsp. wellsii C.A.Norris is a bulbous plant that can be propagated through various methods. These methods are bulb division, seed propagation, and scaling.
Bulb division
Bulb division is the most common method used to propagate Nerine bowdenii Watson subsp. wellsii C.A.Norris. This method involves dividing the mature bulbs into smaller sections. The bulb sections should have one or two growing points and should be planted immediately after division. Bulb division can be done in early spring, just before the plant begins to grow.
Seed propagation
Seed propagation is another method that can be used to propagate Nerine bowdenii Watson subsp. wellsii C.A.Norris. This method involves collecting seeds from the plant after blooming. The seeds should be sown in a well-draining potting mix and kept warm, moist, and in bright but indirect light. Germination can take several months, and it is important to keep the soil consistently moist throughout the germination process.
Scaling
Scaling is a propagation method that involves removing small bulb scales from the parent bulb and planting them in a separate container. To increase the success rate, the scales can be treated with a fungicide before planting. Keep the soil moist and warm, and the bulb scales roots should start growing within a few weeks. This method is best done in the summer or early fall.
With proper care and appropriate propagation methods, Nerine bowdenii Watson subsp. wellsii C.A.Norris can be propagated successfully and be used to produce many beautiful flowering plants.
Disease and Pest Management for Nerine bowdenii Watson subsp. wellsii C.A.Norris
Nerine bowdenii Watson subsp. wellsii C.A.Norris is a hardy, bulbous perennial plant that thrives in sunny, well-drained locations with moderate water. In order to ensure the plant's longevity and overall health, it is important to manage any diseases and pests that may affect it. Common diseases and pests that may affect Nerine bowdenii Watson subsp. wellsii C.A.Norris include:
Diseases
Bulb Rot: This fungal disease can cause the bulbs to become soft and mushy, and the leaves to wilt and discolor. To manage, it is important to remove any infected bulbs immediately, and improve the drainage in the area.
Leaf Spot: This fungal disease is characterized by brown or purplish spots on the leaves. To manage, it is important to remove any infected leaves and improve the air circulation around the plant.
Pests
Spider Mites: These pests are tiny, but can cause considerable damage by sucking the plant's sap. They can be managed by spraying the plant with a neem oil or soap solution, and improving the humidity around the plant.
Thrips: These pests can cause white or silvery spots on the leaves, as well as deformations and discolorations. They can be managed by pruning any affected leaves, and using a neem oil or soap solution to spray the plant.
By being attentive and responsive to any diseases and pests that may affect the plant, your Nerine bowdenii Watson subsp. wellsii C.A.Norris will remain healthy and hardy, and provide many years of enjoyment and beauty.
