Dazed_Lily
10-01-2005, 08:56 PM
I just read this and was quite amazed. In light of my potential move(yes, I am taking all my bulbs as well as daylilies), this was quite useful info.:
Another phenomenon that occurs in late summer is the bulb's natural response to the shorter days and cooler nights. In a short period (two to three weeks) the natural production of plant carbohydrates swings direction. From promoting foliage growth the subtle trigger of nature causes all carbohydrate output to go back down into the bulb. Part of the "art" of farming is watching for this period and timing a harvest to take place just after this swing has finished. In the space of a 7-day period it is possible to see as much as a 1" expansion in the circumference of a bulb. That ultimately makes all the difference in final plant size and floral production.
Another phenomenon that occurs in late summer is the bulb's natural response to the shorter days and cooler nights. In a short period (two to three weeks) the natural production of plant carbohydrates swings direction. From promoting foliage growth the subtle trigger of nature causes all carbohydrate output to go back down into the bulb. Part of the "art" of farming is watching for this period and timing a harvest to take place just after this swing has finished. In the space of a 7-day period it is possible to see as much as a 1" expansion in the circumference of a bulb. That ultimately makes all the difference in final plant size and floral production.