- 1). Dig in 1 or 2 lbs. of compost into the planting area. This will add nutrients and help with drainage. Dig holes at least 8 inches apart and 2 inches deep. Place the tubers in the holes, filling them with the rich soil. Water the tubers until the top 3 inches of soil are damp. Dig a little hole to check if necessary.
- 2). Fertilize the plants when you have 5 to 6 inches of growth. Use a balanced fertilizer and work it into the soil at the rate the package indicates. Water after fertilizing. Keep the plants moist during the growing season and you will have blooms at the end of summer.
- 3). Cut back the flower stems when they are finished blooming, but leave the foliage. The foliage will collect energy for the following season's growth. Move the tubers indoors in zones below 8. In zone 8, a layer of mulch around the plants should protect them from cool weather.
- 4). Dig up the tubers in cold areas and lay them on newspaper to dry for 2 to 3 days. Place them in a container or paper bag with peat moss in a cool, dry area. Replant them in spring. Divide the clumps if they are too large and make new plants or give some away to a friend.
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