Growing tuberoses
Written by Francis Rosenfeld
Aah, the queen of fragrance, Polianthes tuberosa, a joy to gardeners and perfumers alike, probably the most fragrant flower ever. Its heady perfume is sultry and intense, a single flower stem can saturate a room with fragrance.
Tuberosa is a hot climate bulb, and much like show chrysanthemums and long stem roses it is easier to get it as a cut flower than to enjoy it in your garden. Growing these in a pot on the balcony is an extra special indulgence for a northern gardener.
Did you know that tuberose essence is a classic for perfume middle notes? Its strong floral scent reminiscent of linden flowers and incense lingers on the skin and its intensity complements the fresher accents of citrus or aloe.
Tuberoses are hardy to zone 8, so if you want to keep them in your garden you have to dig up the bulbs after the last frost, wash and air dry them and store them in a cool dry place until spring.
Why bother to grow these plants? I planted them because I love them, isn't this reason enough to grow a flower in your garden? Contrary to my preconceived notion tuberoses are not fussy plants, much like any bulb you just plant and water them. They just don't like the cold, is all.
Article author
About the Author
Main Areas: Garden Writing; Sustainable Gardening; Homegrown Harvestr
Published Books: “Terra Two”; “Generations”
Career Focus: Author; Consummate Gardener;
Affiliation: All Year Garden; The Weekly Gardener; Francis Rosenfeld's Blog
I started blogging in 2010, to share the joy of growing all things green and the beauty of the garden through the seasons. Two garden blogs were born: allyeargarden.com and theweeklygardener.com, a periodical that followed it one year later. I wanted to assemble an informal compendium of the things I learned from my grandfather, wonderful books, educational websites, and my own experience, in the hope that other people might use it in their own gardening practice.
Further reading
Further Reading
Article
Pool Deck Pavers vs Concrete Comparison
Creating a beautiful and safe pool area is about more than just installing a pool. The material you choose for your pool deck plays a big role in how your outdoor space looks and feels. Many homeowners wonder whether they should go with concrete or pool deck pavers. This is a common question because both options have advantages, and the choice can affect the safety, maintenance, and overall style of your backyard. If you’re planning to deck or pave around the pool, it&r
January 3, 2026
Article
A Complete Guide to Swimming Pool Equipment Repair
A swimming pool brings comfort, fun, and value to a home or business. Whether it is used for family relaxation or commercial purposes, a pool must stay clean, safe, and fully working at all times. Many people focus only on water cleaning and chemicals, but the real work happens in the pool equipment. Pumps, filters, heaters, and other systems work together every day to keep the water moving and balanced. When any of these systems stop working correctly, the entire pool can su
January 3, 2026
Article
Backyard Retreats: Designing Cozy Outdoor Spaces for Year-Round Enjoyment
Creating a comfortable and inviting outdoor area can turn your backyard into a personal sanctuary, perfect for relaxation and entertainment throughout the seasons. At LNG Landscapes, we understand the unique challenges and opportunities that come with landscaping in Minnesota. Here's how to transform your backyard into a year-round retreat. Embrace the Seasons with Smart Design Minnesota experiences diverse weather conditions, so designing a backyard retreat requires though
May 20, 2025
Article
Pool Resurfacing Materials Compared: Which One is Best for Your Pool?
Having a pool is a great way to relax, have fun, and get some exercise. However, just like everything else on your property, pools need care and attention to stay in great shape. One important part of pool care is pool resurfacing. Over time, the surface of your pool can become worn, cracked, or discolored. Pool resurfacing helps fix these issues and makes your pool look and feel new again. Choosing the right material for resurfacing your pool can be tricky because there are
May 14, 2025