Combo Chef: Pot Luck

The Netherlands Flower Bulb Information Center proves simple can be striking. The center designed a combination with 14 Oxalis regnellii var. triangularis and 10 O. crassipes ‘Alba.’

Oxalis is easy to grow and makes a dramatic statement when planted in wide swaths. This single-genus combo would look best in a low, squatty dish.

Plant oxalis bulbs from December to September in a well-drained growing medium.

Plant O. regnellii var. triangularis bulbs with about 3/4 of an inch of medium or compost over the rhizome and water lightly. Maintain a pH of 6.5-7.0. Feed with a 14-14-14 fertilizer from emergence. Maintain temperatures near 68°F until first flower, then lower to 66°F. Keep relative humidity around 60-80 percent.

‘Alba’ requires a pH of 5.8-6.2. Feed with 150-200 parts per million. It grows best with moderate to high light levels. Keep the medium evenly moist but not saturated. For rooting out, maintain temperatures between 65°F-72°F and for growing on keep them at 55°F-65°F. ‘Alba’ typically does not need growth regulators.

For more: Netherlands Flower Bulb Information Center, telephone 011 (31) 252 628960; Production

Oxalis regnellii var. triangularis: Moderate watering; pH of 6.5-7.0; feed with a 14-14-14 blend; keep temperatures near 68°F until first flower, then lower to 66°F.

O. crassipes ‘Alba:’ pH of 5.8-6.2; keep growing medium moist but not saturated; feed with 150-200 ppm; maintain moderate to high light levels.

- Kelli Rodda

April 2008

Recipe

a. Oxalis regnellii var. triangularis

b. O. crassipes ‘Alba’

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