|
|
Growing Lilies
Lilies that have been established don't need winter protection where good sun cover is dependable. However it is always safest to apply a winter mulch. Lilies will add much beauty and grace to any garden or land scape, along with a sweet scent.
Many planted that have lily as part of their common name are not true lilies. True lilies be long to the Genus Lilium. They grow from bulbs made of fleshly, over lapping scales with no protective covering. True lilies have stiff stems with relatively narrow strap like leaves from top to bottom. Large showy flowers develop at the tip of each stem. These flowers may be trumpet shaped, bowl shaped or bell shaped with reflexed petals. They may nod downwards, face outwards, or turn upwards, and they come in a wide variety of colors with many giving off a delightfully fragrant.
  |
There are many different species of growing lilies available. Not all will thrive in northern gardens.
Growing Asiatic and oriental lilies are the two most popular types of lilies for northern gardens, growing Asiatic lilies are among the easiest to grow. They're very hardy, need no staking, and are not particularly fussy about soil as long as it drains well.
Growing Oriental lilies have become increasingly popular, due to their large exotic blooms and heavy, sweet scent. They are great for northern gardens provided the soil is organic and acidic with good drainage, and you mulch them heavy in fall.
When choosing lilies, consider plants height and bloom time as well as color of flower. Recommended lilies, Enchantment, Connecticut King, Corsica, Crete, Dawnstar, Blackbeauty, Journey's End, Stargazer and yellow Ribbons.
  |
Lilybulbs can be planted in spring or in the fall. Usually from mid September through mid October. If you find hardy lilies growing in containers, you may add them to your garden throughout the growing season. Bulbs never go completely dormant so they must not dry out before planting.
Growing Asiatic and oriental lilies grow best in full sun light. They'll grow taller, more spindly, and flop top in reduced light, Martagon hybrids, a group of turks caps lilies, are prized for their ability to bloom well in shadier conditions.
For best effect, plant lilies in groups of three to five identical bulbs. Space them eight to twelve inches apart, keeping groups three to five apart, depending on the vigor and size of the lilies. Plant small lily bulbs two to four inches deep and large bulbs four to six inches deep, measuring from the top of the bulb. Divide and replant large clusters of bulbs every three or so years or when it seems they are not blooming as well as originally.
  |
Never plant Growing lilies where standing water collects after a heavy rain fall. Well drained soil is an absolute must, add lots of organic matter to clay soil to create a raised area with improved drainage. Add organic matter to light sandy soil, also to help hold onto nutrients and prevent it from drying out to quickly.
When growing liles, before winter, mulch over newly planted bulbs with four to six inches of loose, weed free compost, leaves, or wood chips. This delays soil freezing and allows roots to continue growing longer.
|
