We all like alstroemerias (aka Peruvian lilies). Alstroemerias are a florist’s favourite because they are lovely and last forever in a vase. They’re also low maintenance and look good in the garden. So here’s a guide to grow alstroemerias…

1.They’re idiot proof: anyone can grow them. Alstroemerias like soil that’s not boggy and not bone dry. They’ll thrive in full sun through to part shade, and if you throw a little fertiliser at them in spring they will give you more growth and flowers. Pick your spot, plant them, water them and enjoy the show when the flowers start in spring and keep on coming through to late autumn.

2. The plant breeders have been busy: which is great because there are now many different height options and flower colours to pick from. That said, the current standout is the award winning Alstroemeria Rock & Roll®. It’s a nice shaped plant – compact, bushy and clump forming. The foliage is two toned, opening yellow and green then turning white as the leaves mature. The flowers are dark red and together with the foliage, make fantastic cut flower arrangements.

3. Deciding where to grow them: this is the fun bit. If you live above street level and have a balcony garden, plant them in a large container where you can enjoy them for months on end. Even if you have a large garden, containers set beside the front door will be show stoppers when you add Alstroemeria Rock & Roll to a mixed planting. Or if you’re after a long-term show of across the warmer months, planting them in a mass is a masterstroke move. Not only will your landscaping look phenomenal but you’ll be able to share the love with gifts of bouquets of flowers.