Love lilies but struggle to keep them blooming?
You’re not alone!
With a bit of know-how, you can enjoy vibrant lilies all summer. Check out these 7 foolproof tips for healthy, flowering lilies.
Ready to give your garden a boost?
Let’s get started!
Choose the Right Spot
Your lilies need plenty of sunlight to thrive. Find a spot in your garden that gets at least six hours of sun every day.
They love the morning sun, as it helps dry off any moisture from night, reducing the risk of diseases. Also, a spot with good drainage is key.
Lilies don’t like to sit in water, so make sure the soil can drain any excess water easily.
Plant in Well-Drained Soil
Lilies hate having wet feet. So, plant them in well-drained soil.
If your garden soil tends to be heavy and clay-like, mix in some organic matter like compost or peat moss. This will improve drainage and also give your lilies some extra nutrients.
Remember, happy roots mean happy plants!
Water Wisely
Overwatering can lead to root rot, which is the last thing your lilies need. Water them deeply but not too often.
Aim for about an inch of water per week. If you notice the top inch of soil is dry, it’s time for a drink!
But avoid wetting the foliage to prevent fungal diseases.
Mulch for Moisture and Protection
A layer of mulch around your lilies can do wonders. It helps retain moisture and keeps the roots cool during hot days.
Plus, it can protect against weeds that compete for nutrients. Just spread a 2-3 inch layer of organic mulch like bark or straw around the base of your plants.
Fertilize for Fabulous Blooms
Lilies are hungry plants, especially during the growing season. Feed them with a balanced fertilizer, like a 10-10-10 mix, every six weeks or so.
To give them an extra boost, consider a slow-release fertilizer. Follow the package instructions to avoid over-fertilizing, which can burn the plants.
Support the Stems
As your lilies grow tall and proud, their stems might need some support. Stake them early in the season, before they get too large.
This prevents them from flopping over, especially during heavy rain or wind. You can use garden stakes and some soft ties to keep them upright and looking their best.
Prune and Deadhead
To keep your lilies looking fresh, remove spent blooms by deadheading them. This directs the plant’s energy into producing more flowers instead of seeds.
At the end of the season, once the foliage turns yellow, cut the stems down to the ground. This helps the plant conserve energy for next year’s growth.