Crocosmia (or Montbretia) are fully hardy, tolerating temperatures down to -15C. This means that they can be planted directly outside in the spring in most areas.

— Plant directly into a clear, well-dug space in a border between March and May. You can also plant them in patio containers.

— Crocosmias like a rich, free-draining soil and can also tolerate heavier soil types which have a higher clay content.

— Plant the bulbs with the shoots facing upwards, around 10-15cm deep in borders or patio containers.

— Space the bulbs around 10-15cm apart in borders, or closer together (5-8cm) in pots.

— Choose a position in full sun or partial shade.

— If planting in patio containers, it’s best to use soil-based compost or multipurpose with added loam.

— Water-in after planting and continue to water regularly when in growth in the first year. Once established, they will not require additional watering unless it is very dry.

— Crocosmias usually take a year to establish before they flower, in the first year they may only produce leaves.

— Remove the flower stems after flowering and cut back foliage to ground level in autumn.