Growing lilies and plant care

Lilies are propagated mainly by means of bulbs. They are also grown from seeds, scales, bulbils and bulblets. One can buy lily bulbs online or from a local bulb vendor.

Although the lilies grown from seeds are more disease resistant, the only disadvantage with growing lilies from seeds is that the lily plants take a longer time to bloom, and maybe, in some cases, even take five to six years. Hence, bulbs are very much preferred in growing lilies.

Lilies are usually planted during fall or spring in the garden.
Lilies can also be grown in containers or outdoors.
A cool, porous and well-drained soil is essential for the good growth of lilies.
Adding large amounts of organic matter will improve clay or sandy soils. The bulbs will stay in place for several years, so good bed preparation is an investment for the future.
The ideal location for Lilies will provides direct sun all morning during the summer, with partial shade during hot afternoon hours.
When selecting bulbs, be sure that they do not look dry or shriveled, and plant them immediately.
Proper spacing is usually 12 to 18 inches apart but varies according to the variety selected.
As soon as the soil has become consistently warm during late spring, apply a 3-inch layer of organic mulch around the plants. The mulch will conserve soil moisture and keep the soil (and bulbs) from becoming too hot during the summer.

Lilies do not require daily watering, but when watering, be sure to water deep enough to reach the bulb.
Feed the plants with a balanced fertilizer every few weeks during the growing season. Avoid high-nitrogen fertilizers.
Remove seedpods when they appear.
Also, remove stems and foliage when leaves become yellow.
The mulch should be removed in late fall.
Keep lilies blooming by removing blossoms as they fade. This prevents the plant from expending its energy in producing seed.

Posted in: about flowers