Does anyone in southern California have experience growing these
outdoors in containers? I know they grow quite well in my area in the
ground, but I have an oblong container (about 1 ft deep and wide and 3
feet long) where I would like to grow these.

--
David E. Ross
Climate: California Mediterranean
Sunset Zone: 21 -- interior Santa Monica Mountains with some ocean
influence (USDA 10a, very close to Sunset Zone 19)
Gardening pages at http://www.rossde.com/garden/

"David E. Ross" wrote in message
...
Does anyone in southern California have experience growing these
outdoors in containers? I know they grow quite well in my area in the
ground, but I have an oblong container (about 1 ft deep and wide and 3
feet long) where I would like to grow these.


I'm in Sunset Zone 5. I've grown these in two containers on my balcony for
three years, they do beautifully. One planter box is 14" deep and one pot is
11". In early spring I dig a few handfuls of alfalfa pellets into the
surface soil and give them a good shot of liquid kelp in June. I don't see
why you wouldn't have the same success. I just push the containers back
against the wall, under a plant bench during our few coldest months while
they are dormant. You probably wouldn't have to worry about them freezing
out during the winter.

Val

Hi David

Val is correct. I also live in a mediterranean climate and also grow Alstroemeria. I found that the trick for success for me was to not disturb the plants unnecessarily. Mine also bloomed in the first season and I have had them in containers for three years now. Still growing strong and thriving. Liquid fertilizer will do he trick whenever the soil has been leached.