Lily
Bloom Season: Summer
Plant Habit: Upright
Characteristics: Easy care
Water: Medium
Fertilize: Every month
Height: various, depending on variety
Width: various, depending on variety
Exposure: Sun
Available varieties: Asiatic- Purple Dream, Elodie, Blacklist, Matrix orange, Trendy Santiago
Oriental- Casa Blanca
General Information:
Asiatic lilies thrive in full sun, so it's important to choose a spot in your garden that receives at least six hours of direct sunlight each day. Additionally, make sure the soil is well-draining to prevent waterlogged roots, as this can lead to root rot.
Before planting your Asiatic lilies prepare the soil. Start by removing any weeds or grass from the area and loosen the soil with a garden fork or tiller. Adding organic matter, such as compost or well-rotted manure, will improve the soil's fertility and drainage. Bonemeal will help with the lily bulbs overall health.
Dig a hole that is approximately three times the height of the bulb and place the bulb in the hole, pointed end up. Space the bulbs about 6-8 inches apart to allow for proper growth and airflow.
Proper watering is crucial for the health of your Asiatic lilies. Water the plants deeply once a week, ensuring that the soil is evenly moist but not waterlogged. During hot and dry periods, you may need to water more frequently.
When it comes to fertilizing, apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring when new growth appears. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for the correct dosage, as over-fertilizing can damage the plants. Add bonemeal in the Autumn.
To keep your Asiatic lilies looking their best, it's important to provide them with regular maintenance and care. Remove any dead or faded flowers to encourage continuous blooming and prevent the plant from expending energy on seed production.
In our climate mulching the soil around the plants in late fall to protect the bulbs can help, especially in winters where there is little snowfall to help protect them. This will also help to retain moisture and suppress weed growth.
With proper care and attention, your Asiatic lilies will reward you with a spectacular display of colorful blooms. These versatile flowers can be used in cut flower arrangements or enjoyed in the garden.