BAG ORNITH. SAUNDERSIAE

Planting Ornithogalum saundersiae

• Plant overview: Ornithogalum saundersiae, commonly known as the Giant Chincherinchee, is a bold, architectural bulb producing tall flower spikes topped with star-shaped white flowers with dark centres. It is ideal for borders, mixed beds, and large containers, adding strong vertical interest.

• When to plant:

  • Plant bulbs in spring, from April to May, once the risk of severe frost has passed.

  • In warmer or sheltered gardens, slightly earlier planting is possible if soil conditions are suitable.

• Site selection:

  • Choose a position in full sun or light partial shade.

  • A warm, sheltered location encourages strong growth and better flowering.

• Soil preparation:

  • Prefers fertile, well-drained soil.

  • Improve planting areas with garden compost or well-rotted organic matter to enhance drainage and nutrient levels.

  • Avoid heavy, poorly drained soils, as bulbs are prone to rotting in waterlogged conditions.

• Planting depth and spacing:

  • Plant bulbs 10–15cm deep, with the pointed end facing upwards.

  • Space bulbs approximately 20–30cm apart to allow room for their large leaves and tall stems.

• Container planting:

  • Use deep, sturdy pots with good drainage holes.

  • A loam-based compost mixed with grit is ideal for container-grown plants.

Ongoing Care and Maintenance

• Watering:

  • Water well after planting to help bulbs settle.

  • During active growth, keep soil evenly moist but not saturated.

  • Reduce watering once flowering finishes and foliage begins to yellow.

• Feeding:

  • Feed every 2–3 weeks during the growing season with a balanced liquid fertiliser.

  • Adequate feeding supports tall stems and large flower heads.

• Mulching:

  • Apply a mulch of compost in late spring to retain moisture and suppress weeds.

  • Mulching also helps maintain even soil temperatures.

• Staking:

  • Flower spikes can reach 1–1.5m tall and may need staking in exposed or windy locations.

  • Use discreet supports to prevent stems from snapping.

• Weed control:

  • Keep the area around plants weed-free, particularly early in the season.

  • Take care not to disturb the bulbs when cultivating.

• Pests and problems:

  • Generally pest-free, though slugs and snails may damage young foliage.

  • Good drainage is essential to prevent bulb rot and fungal issues.

Flowering, Aftercare, and Winter Protection

• Flowering period:

  • Ornithogalum saundersiae typically flowers from mid to late summer, producing long-lasting blooms.

  • Flowers open progressively from the base of the spike upwards, extending display time.

• Deadheading:

  • Remove spent flower stems once flowering has finished to improve appearance.

  • Do not cut back green leaves, as these are needed to feed the bulb.

• Foliage care:

  • Allow foliage to die back naturally in late summer or early autumn.

  • This process helps bulbs store energy for the following year.

• Winter hardiness:

  • Ornithogalum saundersiae is half-hardy and may not survive harsh winters outdoors.

  • In mild, well-drained gardens, bulbs may overwinter with protection.

• Lifting and storage:

  • In colder or wetter areas, lift bulbs after foliage has died back.

  • Dry bulbs thoroughly and store in trays or boxes of dry compost or sand.

  • Keep in a cool, dark, frost-free location over winter.

• Overwintering in containers:

  • Pots can be moved into a greenhouse, shed, or frost-free garage.

  • Keep compost almost dry during winter dormancy.

• Replanting:

  • Replant stored bulbs the following spring once frost risk has passed.

Ornithogalum saundersiae is a dramatic and rewarding plant, offering height, structure, and long-lasting summer flowers when given warmth, good drainage, and appropriate winter care

We currently only deliver within the island of Ireland, other countries can be quoted for by contacting [email protected] or via telephone on 06964084
 

Standard Delivery is FREE on orders over €250*

All standard deliveries will be completed within 5-7 working days via Fastway Couriers, any delay to this delivery time, the customer will be notified by One of our staff.

The in-Store delivery charge will vary compared with online, in-store delivery charge is done on a case by case basis. 

* Only mainland Ireland addresses qualify for free delivery.
 

Live Plants Delivery

Our live plants are packed with care and diligence by our staff, our horticulturists review each plant before despatch to ensure quality is maintained.
Live Plant delivery charges are not calculated on weight but on the space required per package to ensure safe delivery, so delivery charges may vary as some plants require more space than others when packed.
All live plants are despatched within 3-5 working days where possible, our couriers aim to deliver within 48 hours of despatch from our Garden Centre to allow the plant to arrive in healthy condition.
 

Click & Collect

Can’t wait for delivery? Why not try our FREE Click & Collect service? Simply make your purchase online and collect it from our store located in Croagh Co. Limerick. Our staff will contact you by phone when your order is ready for collection (Please allow 24 hours minimum). When collecting your item, call the store on 069-64084. We will then load into your car as required. This service is available in-store 9am – 6pm Monday – Saturday (No collections on Sundays)

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