Quote: sglen @ October 4 2013, 6:35 PM BSTMoved into a flat with balconies this year so bought me some bulbs and a bay tree. Bay tree keeps getting forgotten, my calla lily grew like crazy but never flowered and my Oriental Mona Lisa lily was really, really easy and impressive looking.
As someone who should not even be allowed to look after myself, nevermind any other living thing, I strongly recommend the Mona Lisa lilly. You can grow it indoors and out and it just does it all itself.
Do any of you greenfingered types know what was up with my Calla lily though? The leaves grew madly and it got massive at one point but I never even got a bulb. Not using any fertiliser or anything.
Have investigated out of interest. Think Mona Lisa is hardier re soil conditions whereas Calla might need a low nitrogen feed about monthly. Also try to give the latter more light. If it was originally forced it may not be on the normal seasonal pattern. Best to dig out the tuber this month and keep it in a cool, dark, place indoors for a few months. Then replant. The Mona Lisa is strong enough to stay outside during winter.
I got my hardy wallflowers today. Went to an expensive garden centre in the countryside but they were only £1.50 for a bunch of 15. Was thrilled at the price and have already planted them. I used to dislike them but have completely changed my mind about them in the last two years. They compliment the spring bulbs which are among my favourites, along with roses and rhododendrons.....and lots of other plants with colour!