Lilies
- 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
- They come in a range of flower colours, including, white, pink, yellow, orange and red.
- They are summer flowering and can be grown in the garden or in pots.
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 early to mid autumn.
- After purchase, 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.
Uses
- Lilies can be used successfully in the following situations:-
- In garden borders from the centre to the back
- In pots and containers
- Semi-shade, dappled light positions
- Woodland themed gardens
- Decks and patios
- Conservatories and glasshouses
Popular Varieties
- Candidum—’Madonna Lily’ - white
- Auratum—’Golden Rayed Lily’ - white with gold marking
- Speciosum—’Japanese Lily’ - pink
- Lancefolium—’Tiger Lily’ - golden, flecked
- Regale—’Regal Lily’ - white
- Longiflorum—’Easter Lily’ - white