How to Grow Lilies

Growing lilies, known scientifically as Lilium, is a rewarding endeavor for gardeners, offering a splendid array of colors and fragrances that can enhance any landscape or garden. Lilies are perennial plants that can thrive in a variety of climates and soil types, making them a popular choice for gardeners seeking to add elegance and beauty to their outdoor spaces. Below is a comprehensive guide on how to successfully cultivate lilies, from choosing the right varieties to planting, caring for, and maintaining these exquisite flowers.

Choosing the Right Lily Varieties

Lily varieties are classified into several groups based on their flower structure and growth habits. Some of the most popular types include:

1. Asiatic Lilies: Known for their vibrant colors and strong, upright stems, Asiatic lilies are among the earliest to bloom and are relatively easy to grow. They come in shades of yellow, orange, red, and pink.

2. Oriental Lilies: These lilies are celebrated for their large, fragrant blooms and are typically available in shades of white, pink, and red. Oriental lilies usually bloom later in the summer and have a more pronounced fragrance compared to Asiatic varieties.

3. Trumpet Lilies: Featuring large, trumpet-shaped flowers, these lilies are known for their impressive size and strong fragrance. They can grow quite tall and are often used as focal points in gardens.

4. LA Hybrids: A cross between Asiatic and Longiflorum lilies, LA hybrids offer the best qualities of both parent plants. They are generally robust, with vibrant colors and good disease resistance.

5. Orienpet Lilies: These are hybrids of Oriental and Trumpet lilies, combining the fragrance of Oriental lilies with the size and robustness of Trumpet lilies.

Selecting the right variety depends on your local climate, soil conditions, and personal preferences for flower color and scent.

Planting Lilies

Planting lilies involves several key steps to ensure that the bulbs establish well and produce beautiful blooms.

1. Timing: Lilies are typically planted in the fall, about 6-8 weeks before the ground freezes. This allows the bulbs to establish roots before winter sets in. In warmer climates, planting can also be done in early spring.

2. Site Selection: Lilies prefer a sunny to partially shaded location. They require well-draining soil to prevent bulb rot. A spot that receives morning sun and afternoon shade is often ideal. Avoid areas where water tends to pool, as this can lead to bulb decay.

3. Soil Preparation: Lilies thrive in loamy, fertile soil with a pH level between 6.0 and 6.8. Before planting, enrich the soil with compost or well-rotted manure to improve its structure and nutrient content. Ensure good drainage by incorporating sand or perlite if the soil is heavy or clayey.

4. Planting Depth and Spacing: Plant lily bulbs at a depth of about 6-8 inches (15-20 cm) from the base of the bulb to the soil surface. Space the bulbs about 6-12 inches (15-30 cm) apart, depending on the variety. This spacing allows for adequate air circulation and reduces the risk of disease.

5. Planting Technique: Dig a hole to the appropriate depth, place the bulb in the hole with the pointed end facing upward, and cover it with soil. Water the area thoroughly after planting to help settle the soil around the bulb.

Caring for Lilies

Proper care is essential for the healthy growth and flowering of lilies.

1. Watering: Lilies require consistent moisture, especially during their growing season. Water the plants regularly to keep the soil evenly moist but not waterlogged. Reduce watering once the foliage starts to yellow and die back, signaling the end of the growing season.

2. Fertilizing: Feed lilies with a balanced, all-purpose fertilizer or one specifically formulated for bulbs. Apply the fertilizer in early spring as new growth begins and again after flowering to support the development of new bulbs. Avoid excessive fertilization, as this can lead to lush foliage at the expense of blooms.

3. Mulching: Apply a layer of mulch around the base of the lilies to conserve moisture, regulate soil temperature, and suppress weeds. Organic mulches such as straw, bark, or wood chips work well and will decompose over time, adding nutrients to the soil.

4. Staking: Tall varieties of lilies, such as Trumpet and Orienpet lilies, may require staking to support their heavy blooms and prevent them from toppling over. Use bamboo stakes or other garden supports to secure the stems, being careful not to damage the bulbs or roots.

5. Pruning: After flowering, remove spent blooms by cutting the flower stalks down to the base. Leave the foliage intact until it turns yellow or brown, as the leaves continue to photosynthesize and provide nutrients to the bulb for next year’s growth. Once the foliage has died back, cut it back to the ground.

Dealing with Pests and Diseases

Lilies are relatively hardy, but they can be susceptible to certain pests and diseases.

1. Pests: Common pests include aphids, spider mites, and lily beetles. Aphids and spider mites can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Lily beetles, which can cause significant damage to the foliage and flowers, should be handpicked and removed or treated with appropriate insecticides.

2. Diseases: Lilies may face issues such as botrytis blight, fungal infections, and viral diseases. To prevent fungal issues, ensure good air circulation around the plants and avoid overhead watering. Remove and discard any infected plant material to reduce the spread of diseases. Using disease-resistant varieties can also help mitigate the risk.

Overwintering Lilies

In colder climates, lily bulbs need protection from freezing temperatures. Apply a layer of mulch or compost over the planting area in late fall to insulate the soil and prevent freeze-thaw cycles from damaging the bulbs. In extremely cold regions, additional protection, such as covering the mulch with a layer of straw or burlap, may be necessary.

In warmer climates, lilies can often overwinter without special protection. However, it is still beneficial to add a layer of mulch to maintain soil moisture and temperature.

Dividing and Propagating Lilies

Lilies can be propagated through division or by growing bulbs from seeds.

1. Division: To propagate lilies by division, wait until the bulbs have become overcrowded or the plant shows signs of declining vigor. Dig up the bulbs after they have finished flowering and the foliage has died back. Separate the bulbs, ensuring each bulb has roots and a viable shoot. Replant the divided bulbs immediately or store them in a cool, dry place until planting.

2. Seed Propagation: Growing lilies from seeds is more challenging and requires patience. Seeds should be sown in a well-draining seed-starting mix and kept in a warm, sunny location. Germination can be slow, and the plants will need to be nurtured for several years before they produce blooms.

Conclusion

Growing lilies can be a highly gratifying experience, offering a stunning display of flowers and an enchanting fragrance that can transform any garden. By selecting the right varieties, following proper planting and care techniques, and addressing any potential issues with pests and diseases, gardeners can enjoy a beautiful and thriving lily garden for years to come. Whether you are a seasoned gardener or a beginner, the elegance and charm of lilies make them a worthwhile addition to any garden or landscape.