Foxtail Lilly and Eastern Redbud *

Dear gardener, isn’t it exciting it to create a plant from seeds?

Are you germinating them indoors or are they already outside in pots? If the former, you need to start taking the plants outside to get acclimatized. Choose a day it is not too hot, or do it in the morning when temperatures are lower.  Place them in the shade and keep and eye on them to make sure they do not dry. After few days you will be able to plant them in the soil. On the other hand, if they are already outside, choose a cool morning or an overcast day to plant them.

Both plants are hardy for your climate, the key is to choose the most suitable location as they will not want to me moved once established.

Redbud (Cercis canadensis) is a lovely native small tree found in Southern Ontario in the understory of larger trees, at the forest edge or in forest openings, therefore it can be planted in full sun or light shade. Please note that it does better when not completely exposed to the elements (wind, drought, etc.), particularly as you are in zone 5, this consideration is important.

It will grow very fast for the first few years and then its growth will slow down as it matures reaching a maximum height of 8 meters and 6m. across. It will grow in any soil as long as it has good moisture but it is well drained. Allowed to dry, it will go under stress and will be more susceptible to pest or diseases.

Foxtail Lilly (Eremerus spp) is an impressive tuberous root from Asia whose flowers show very well in the spring, particularly if planted in front of dark evergreens. Commonly, the root is planted in September but given that you have already germinate it, you can plant it now. Please note that it really dislikes having its roots disturbed so choose the location carefully and ensure good drainage. Find attached some care references from the Toronto Master Gardeners and the Toronto Botanical Garden:.

Enjoy your new babies!