Since lilies often remain in the same site for a number of years choosing and preparing the site is of great importance. I tend to like to buy for the site or spot; rather than the other way around.
Most folks new to liliums only want to know when to plant them. As lilies generally bloom during here from late winter and into late Summer, there is a fair window of opportunity for planting them. At planting time, do not fertilize your bulbs. It is perhaps best to have a general rule that after flowering, this is the time to fertilize.
Most companies sell dormant bulbs, though you will find potted ones always on sale when flowering. Depending on your growing conditions, climate and the like; these potted ones can generally be uplifted and planted in their new position without waiting for them to go dormant. When in doubt; wait.
When buying lilies, the closer you can get to the growing source, the better. Mislabeled and poor quality bulbs are sometimes the hallmark of large companies and garden centers. Though, this is not always the case.
Don't be tempted by cheap prices for when the price seems too good to be true, it probably is. Try to do business only with companies who, 1.guarantee their products. 2.convey responsibility to their customers' concerns. 3. can be reached in an easy manner.
Remember, that at the point of sale, this is the most comunicative these growers will be. Ask all your questions before buying, and be aware of their willingness to listen at this point.
Storing bulbs.
Because lilies are perennials, they are supposed to be in the ground year-round. When lifting them between garden positions or because you are moving house, keep bulbs at a cool even temperature; making sure they are neither wet or dry. Ideally, the best storage for home gardenes is to place the bulbs in slightly damp peat moss, pop this into a poly bag and refrigerate.
Replant as soon as possible. Avoid moving them over summer. If you are thinking of moving, then plan with a trusted friend and have a covernance written into your house sale that come winter, these bulbs will be available for digging by Joe Bloggs and free and easy access will be granted by the new owner for doing same.
Folks new to lilies often ask, "Are lilies really hardy?"
The answer is a resounding yes! Treat lily bulbs as hardy perennials anywhere you are reading this, other than the warm-winter areas where they don't receive an adequate dormancy period. At the other extreme, Oriental lilies are reputedly less hardy than Asiatics and Trumpets and would not be very
| Here's the follow-up discussion on this article: | View all related messages |
For a complete listing of article comments, questions, and other discussions related to Gary Buckley's Alpines and Bulbs topic, please visit the Discussions page.