The Complete Guide to Growing Lilies: Planting, Care, and Varieties

Lilies stand as the undisputed royalty of summer gardens, bursting onto the scene with dramatic blooms when many other flowers have settled into a quiet rhythm. With their intoxicating fragrances, sturdy stems, and substantial petals, these magnificent bulbs deliver both garden splendor and excellent performance as cut flowers. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or just beginning your horticultural journey, lilies offer remarkable beauty with relatively straightforward care requirements.

Lily Basics

True lilies belong to the genus Lilium and should not be confused with daylilies (Hemerocallis) or water lilies (Nymphaea). These perennial bulbs produce upright stems adorned with striking trumpet-shaped or bowl-shaped flowers that command attention in any garden setting.

• Botanical name: Lilium
• Hardiness zones: 5-8 (depending on variety)
• Bloom time: Summer
• Sun requirements: Full sun to light shade
• Type: Bulb
• Notable characteristics: Excellent as cut flowers, often fragrant
• Warning: Toxic to cats and dogs

Lilies emerge from scaly bulbs that lack the protective papery covering found on tulips or daffodils. These bulbs never go completely dormant, making proper storage critical if they’re not planted promptly. Their impressive blooms appear on stems ranging from 2 to 8 feet tall, creating vertical interest and focal points throughout the garden.

Types of Lilies

The lily world offers remarkable diversity, with several distinct groups displaying unique characteristics. Understanding these differences helps gardeners select varieties that will perform best in their specific growing conditions.

Asiatic Lilies

Asiatic lilies typically open the summer lily season with their early blooms. These varieties feature upward or outward-facing flowers in vibrant colors including reds, oranges, yellows, and whites. While Asiatics generally lack fragrance, they compensate with their bold colors, distinctive spotting patterns, and excellent reliability in the garden. They’re particularly suitable for borders and containers, with most varieties reaching 2-3 feet in height.

Oriental Lilies

Oriental lilies bloom later in summer with large, often intensely fragrant flowers that can measure up to 10 inches across. Their intoxicating perfume is especially noticeable in the evening. These lilies typically feature white, pink, or crimson blooms, often with dramatic spotting or brush marks. Taller than Asiatics, Oriental lilies commonly reach 3-4 feet and make spectacular specimens in garden beds or large containers.

Trumpet Lilies

As their name suggests, Trumpet lilies produce elegant, elongated trumpet-shaped blooms with reflexed petal tips. These stately lilies offer a heavenly fragrance and impressive height, often growing 4-6 feet tall. Their classic white flowers create a moonlight garden effect, though varieties in yellow, pink, and bicolors are also available. The spectacular ‘Regale’ lily belongs to this group.

Orienpet Lilies

Orienpet lilies (also called OT hybrids) represent a breakthrough in lily breeding, combining the best qualities of Oriental and Trumpet lilies. These sturdy hybrids offer exceptional garden performance with enormous, often fragrant flowers on towering stems that can reach 4-8 feet tall. Their blooms typically feature vibrant colors with intricate markings, and many varieties demonstrate improved heat tolerance compared to traditional Oriental lilies.

Species Lilies

For naturalistic gardens, species lilies offer unique charm and ecological adaptation. These wild-type lilies include varieties like the delicate coral lily (Lilium pumilum) and the graceful Turk’s cap lily (Lilium martagon). While generally less showy than modern hybrids, species lilies often demonstrate excellent naturalizing ability in the right conditions.

How to Plant Lilies

Successful lily cultivation begins with proper planting techniques. Follow these guidelines to establish healthy, vigorous plants that will delight for years to come.

When to Plant

Lily bulbs can be planted in either fall or early spring. Fall planting (October to November in most regions) allows bulbs to establish roots before winter dormancy, often resulting in stronger first-year growth. Spring planting works well too, especially in regions with harsh winters. Plant as soon as the soil becomes workable, typically in March or April.

Choosing the Right Location

Lilies perform best with “their head in the sun, feet in the shade.” This means they require at least six hours of direct sunlight for optimal blooming, but benefit from cooler soil conditions around their roots. Consider planting among low-growing perennials that will shade the soil while allowing lily stems to rise above into full sunshine.

Soil Requirements

Well-draining soil is absolutely essential for lily success. These bulbs will rot in waterlogged conditions, making raised beds or amended soil crucial in heavy clay areas. Lilies prefer slightly acidic to neutral pH (6.0-7.0) and thrive in humus-rich soil with good organic content. Before planting, incorporate compost or well-rotted manure to improve soil structure and fertility.

Planting Depth and Spacing

Plant lily bulbs at a depth approximately three times their height (usually 4-6 inches deep for small bulbs and 6-8 inches for larger varieties). Space bulbs 8-12 inches apart, with closer spacing for smaller species and wider spacing for massive varieties like the Orienpets. Lilies look most impressive when planted in groups of 3-7 bulbs rather than individually.

When planting, add a tablespoon of bulb fertilizer or bone meal to the planting hole, mixing it with the soil at the bottom. Position the bulb with its pointed side up, then backfill carefully to avoid air pockets around the bulb.

Lily Care

Once established, lilies are relatively low-maintenance perennials that will return reliably for years with proper care.

Watering

Consistent moisture is crucial during the growing season, particularly from spring through flowering. Provide approximately one inch of water weekly when rainfall is insufficient. After flowering, reduce watering slightly but never allow the soil to completely dry out while plants remain in active growth.

Fertilizing

Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer (10-10-10) in early spring as shoots emerge. A second light feeding after flowering helps build strength for next year’s display. Avoid high-nitrogen fertilizers, which can promote lush foliage at the expense of flowering and may increase disease susceptibility.

Mulching

A 2-3 inch layer of organic mulch helps maintain consistent soil moisture and keeps roots cool during summer heat. Pine straw, shredded leaves, or composted bark all work well. Keep mulch pulled back slightly from emerging shoots in spring to prevent rot.

Staking

Taller lily varieties, particularly Orienpet and some Oriental types, may require staking to prevent stems from bending or breaking in wind or rain. Place stakes early in the season before plants reach full height, positioning them carefully to avoid damaging bulbs.

Deadheading and Post-Bloom Care

Remove spent flowers promptly to prevent seed formation, which diverts energy from bulb development. Cut only the flower head, leaving as much foliage as possible. After flowering, continue watering and allow foliage to remain until it naturally yellows and dies back in fall. This post-bloom period is crucial for building energy reserves in the bulbs for next year’s display.

Winter Protection

In zones 4-5, apply a 4-6 inch layer of mulch after the ground freezes to protect bulbs from freeze-thaw cycles. In containers, move pots to a protected location or bury them temporarily in the garden for winter insulation.

Popular Lily Varieties

With thousands of lily cultivars available, the selection can seem overwhelming. These standout performers offer exceptional garden value and represent the diversity available within the lily family.

‘Stargazer’

Perhaps the most recognized lily in the world, ‘Stargazer’ features dramatic crimson-pink blooms with white edges and prominent dark spots. This Oriental lily offers a powerful fragrance and excellent vase life as a cut flower. Growing 3-4 feet tall, it has become the standard against which many other lilies are judged.

‘Casa Blanca’

For pure elegance, few lilies match the pristine white blooms of ‘Casa Blanca.’ This Oriental lily produces enormous flowers with gently reflexed petals and a sweet, intoxicating fragrance. The gleaming white blooms create spectacular evening garden displays and serve as perfect wedding flowers.

‘Connecticut King’

This award-winning Asiatic lily presents clear, sunshine-yellow flowers without spots on strong 3-foot stems. Its upward-facing blooms open early in the lily season and offer excellent garden performance even in challenging conditions. While lacking fragrance, its vibrant color makes it a standout in the garden.

‘Yelloween’

Introduced in 2001, this breakthrough Orienpet hybrid still maintains its popularity for its unique lemon-yellow coloration with subtle lime-green veining. Standing 4-5 feet tall, ‘Yelloween’ produces up to 15 outward-facing blooms per stem and demonstrates excellent cold tolerance, making it a favorite of both home gardeners and commercial growers.

Coral Lily (Lilium pumilum)

For natural gardens or rock gardens, this charming species lily from Siberia and northern China offers gracefully nodding, bright coral-orange flowers on wiry 2-foot stems. The small, turban-shaped blooms appear in early summer and feature a light, sweet fragrance. This adaptable species naturalizes well in cooler climates.

Dealing with Lily Challenges

While generally trouble-free, lilies can occasionally face certain pests and diseases.

Lily Beetle

The bright red lily leaf beetle can quickly defoliate plants if not controlled. Hand-picking adults and larvae, along with neem oil applications, provides effective organic control. Begin monitoring plants early in spring when beetles first emerge.

Botrytis

This fungal disease appears as brown spots on leaves and flowers during wet weather. Improve air circulation by avoiding overcrowding, and avoid overhead watering. Remove and destroy affected foliage promptly.

Virus

Lily mosaic virus causes mottled foliage and distorted growth. Since no cure exists, remove and destroy infected plants immediately to prevent spread. Purchase virus-free bulbs from reputable sources and control aphids, which transmit the disease.

Using Lilies in Garden Design

The dramatic vertical presence of lilies makes them valuable design elements in many garden settings.

In perennial borders, lilies provide mid-summer focal points and vertical accents. Plant them among lower-growing perennials like geraniums or catmint, which will hide the lilies’ lower stems while providing the cool root conditions they prefer.

For cutting gardens, dedicate a row or bed specifically for lilies, spacing them closely enough to support each other. Asiatic and Oriental varieties make particularly excellent cut flowers, often lasting over a week in arrangements.

Container plantings allow even gardeners with limited space to enjoy lilies. Choose a pot at least 12 inches deep with excellent drainage, and plant bulbs more densely than in garden settings for dramatic effect. Consider underplanting with cascading annuals to create a complete display.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are lilies difficult to grow?

No, lilies are surprisingly easy to grow despite their exotic appearance. Provided with well-draining soil and adequate sunlight, most varieties require minimal maintenance and will return reliably for years.

When should I divide my lily bulbs?

Divide lilies when flowering decreases or clumps become overcrowded, typically every 3-5 years. The best time is in early fall after foliage has yellowed but before the ground freezes.

Why didn’t my lilies bloom this year?

Poor blooming may result from insufficient sunlight, competition from tree roots, improper nutrition, or planting too deeply. Ensure plants receive at least 6 hours of direct sun and apply balanced fertilizer in spring.

Are all lilies fragrant?

No, fragrance varies dramatically between lily types. Asiatic lilies have little to no scent, while Oriental, Trumpet, and many Orienpet varieties offer intense fragrance. Check variety descriptions when selecting bulbs if fragrance is important to you.

How do I protect lilies from deer?

Deer consider lilies a delicacy. Use physical barriers like netting, apply commercial repellents regularly, or interplant with deer-resistant companions like lavender, Russian sage, or strongly scented herbs.

With their dramatic flowers, relatively simple care requirements, and remarkable diversity, lilies deserve a place in every garden. By understanding the different types and their specific needs, you can enjoy these magnificent summer bloomers for many years to come.

Author

medha deb

 

Medha Deb is an editor with a master's degree in Applied Linguistics from the University of Hyderabad. She believes that her qualification has helped her develop a deep understanding of language and its application in various contexts.

Read full bio of medha deb