How to Plant and Care for Your Clivia Seedlings
Beginner’s Guide from Utopia Clivias
Bringing home new Clivia seedlings is an exciting step for any gardener. Whether you're new to growing Clivias or adding to your collection, this simple guide will help you plant and care for your seedlings the right way.
1. Handle Seedlings with Care
When your Clivia plants arrive, gently unpack and unwrap them. The roots are delicate and need to be handled carefully to avoid damage.
2. Rehydrating After Transit
We package your seedlings carefully to retain moisture, but if they feel dry, soak the roots in tap water for about an hour. This helps the seedlings rehydrate before planting.
3. Best Potting Mix for Clivia Seedlings
For healthy growth, use a well-draining mixture of potting soil, bark, filter sand, and perlite. This ensures proper drainage and prevents the roots from becoming waterlogged — a common cause of rot in Clivias.
4. Potting: Individual vs. Community Pots
You can plant seedlings in individual 15cm pots or group them in a community pot. However, we recommend planting them individually to give each seedling space and to prevent diseases from spreading between plants.
5. Light Requirements for Clivias
Clivia plants love shade. Place them in full shade or dappled sunlight. A little early morning sun is fine, but avoid direct afternoon sun as it can scorch the leaves. For better flowering, grow them in a spot with light shade.
6. Planting Depth
Plant your Clivia seedlings with the crown slightly above the soil surface. This prevents rot and promotes healthier growth. Press the soil gently around the seedling to secure it.
7. First Watering and Feeding
Water lightly after planting with a diluted solution of Nitrosol or Seagrow, along with a fungicide such as Benomyl or Virikop. This strengthens the seedlings and helps prevent fungal infections.
8. Watering Routine
Water once a week until your Clivia seedlings are well-established. Clivias prefer to be on the drier side rather than overwatered.
9. When to Repot
Once you notice roots appearing at the top or bottom of the pot, it’s time to transplant your seedling into a bigger container to allow further growth.
10. When Will My Clivia Flower?
With the right care, Clivias generally start flowering in their fourth year. It may take patience, but the vibrant blooms are well worth the wait!
Growing Clivias is a rewarding experience. With proper care, your seedlings will grow into beautiful, flowering plants that bring colour and charm to your garden or shade house.
For more Clivia care tips, visit us at:
👉 www.utopiaclivias.co.za
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