How to Grow Lilies

Lilies can be planted from late autumn until early April. They're bought as bulbs – choose large, firm bulbs – although you can also find potted plants at the garden centre in summer. Potted lilies must have at least 12cm of soil above the bulb. Bulbs will benefit from extra winter protection if planted deeper.

Do lilies come back every year?
Where is the best place to plant lilies?
How do you take care of potted lilies?
Can you grow lilies in pots?
What month do you plant lily bulbs?
Can lilies be left in the ground over winter?
Should I soak lily bulbs before planting?
Do lilies need full sun?
Do lilies need a lot of water?
How long do lily plants last?
What to do when lilies have finished flowering?
What do I feed my lilies?

Do lilies come back every year?

Everyone loves lilies. With large, showy blooms, lilies add striking elegance to the yard and garden from early to midsummer. Grown from bulbs, lilies are perennial flowers that will return year after year and require minimal care, provided that you plant them in the right place.

Where is the best place to plant lilies?

Lilies should be planted where they can get full sun or at least half day sun. In hot climates they appreciate being shaded from afternoon heat. Though lilies don't take up a lot of space in the garden, they also don't like to be crowded.

How do you take care of potted lilies?

Q How should I care for lilies in pots? A Place the pots in full sun and ensure the compost is moist at all times, but not wet. Feed with a liquid fertiliser, such as tomato feed, every fortnight during summer. Repot bulbs in the autumn when the foliage dies down, or transfer them to the garden.

Can you grow lilies in pots?

To grow potted lily plants, you will need these few things: ... A medium to large, well-draining pot – Proper drainage is very important for lilies. While they like moist soil, sopping wet soil will cause the bulbs to rot. Make sure you select a container with drainage holes on the bottom.

What month do you plant lily bulbs?

Planting: Lily bulbs can be planted in fall or early spring. If planting in the fall it is important to do so at least four weeks prior to your last frost date in order that they can put down strong roots before the ground freezes. Plant in early spring when the ground is workable but not muddy.

Can lilies be left in the ground over winter?

Overwintering. Ideally keep containers in a cool but frost-free, airy place with strong light, such as a well-ventilated cold greenhouse or frame. ... Lilies usually need cool winter conditions if they are to flower well, so indoor conditions are not suitable over winter.

Should I soak lily bulbs before planting?

Soak the lily bulbs over night in cold water before planting them if they look a little soft. Lilies can be planted from late autumn to early spring.

Do lilies need full sun?

Though lilies look like they'd be fussy plants, they are actually very easy to grow. They're not particular about soil type or pH and they grow well in full sun, part sun, dappled shade and even light shade. ... Even more than other bulbs, lilies demand well-drained soil.

Do lilies need a lot of water?

Water your lilies only as needed.

Lilies generally don't need a lot of water, so only water if required. Asiatic lilies, Trumpets, and Orienpets flourish in hot, dry climates, as long as they have enough water up to flowering time. Orientals need watering during the summer, as they do not blossom until August.

How long do lily plants last?

When looked after properly, lilies have one of the longest vase lives of all cut flowers. Here's how to look after yours: Lilies have a vase life of around 10-14 days.

What to do when lilies have finished flowering?

Q: Once a lily has bloomed, should the stem be cut off or the entire plant be cut back? A: It's best just to remove the stem itself. Lilies, especially those from bulbs, will feed off the foliage and will grow better the next season if it's left until it dies off.

What do I feed my lilies?

Feed lilies when they come into flower. Lilies are heavy feeders. As they come into flower, feed them with a high-potassium liquid fertiliser – such as tomato feed – every two weeks. Continue feeding lilies after they have finished flowering to help the bulbs grow and ensure a good display the following year.