Lilies

Lilies

A 2 minute read by Peter Worsp

Lilies are flowering plants grown from bulbs that come in a myriad of shapes, forms and colours. They are summer flowering and can be grown in the garden or in pots. They're available in a spectacular range of flower colours including white, pink, yellow, orange and red and are a favourite in the Christmas garden.

Lilies are flowering plants grown from bulbs
There are many forms, the most popular belonging to one of the following groups: Asiatic, Candidum, Species, Longiflorum, Oriental

Cultural Requirements

Lilies prefer to grow in acid, or lime free soils
Even though lily bulbs should never dry out, they do need a free draining soil to let excess moisture drain away
They like a semi-shaded situation, or dappled sunlight
Give them plenty of moisture in hot dry spells
Taller varieties will need staking
Re-plant bulbs immediately after lifting, do not let bulbs dry out

When to Plant

Lilies are purchased as bulbs and planted in winter time
Plant lily bulbs as soon as possible to reduce the risk of the bulbs drying out in the small bags they are sold in

Where to Plant

Lilies can either be planted in the garden or in pots and containers
When planting in the garden make sure to provide a fertile, free draining soil. The addition of pumice, sand or grit at the base of the planting hole will assist with this
In pots always use a good quality potting mix
In the garden a good bulb food should be applied at planting time. Once plants emerge liquid feed at two weekly intervals
In pots it is best to use a slow release fertiliser to promote flowers