Best started off in greenhouse or indoors, but care must be taken against frost when transferring outdoors. Plant with the crown slightly above the soil. Do not divide the roots prior to planting. After planting, water well and keep the soil moist but not wet. Increase watering as the plant grows, taking care not to get the foliage wet when watering. Once replanted in the garden protect against slugs. When flowering has finished, lift the tubers, and store upside down for approx 14 days so that any residual water can drain from the hollow stem. They should then be stored in peat or vermiculite, or between layers of straw or wood shavings, in a frost-free area. If started outdoors, plant the tuber 10cm (4”) deep with the neck under the soil but pointing upwards. Plant tall varieties 90cm (36”) apart, medium height varieties 60cm (24”) apart, small varieties 30cm (12”) apart.
