Lily bulbs (Lilium) are magnificent additions to any garden, known for their striking height, vibrant colors, and intense fragrance. Unlike plants such as daylilies, true lilies grow from scaly, fleshy bulbs. While traditional advice suggests autumn planting for root establishment before winter, bulbs are widely available for purchase and planting in the spring. Spring planting is a perfectly viable option, allowing gardeners to select their bulbs closer to the growing season.
Is Spring Planting Recommended
Spring planting of lily bulbs is possible and often recommended in regions with harsh winters where fall-planted bulbs might struggle to establish roots before a hard freeze. When sourcing bulbs in the spring, you are typically purchasing stock that has been kept dormant and pre-chilled by the supplier. This cold storage period mimics the necessary winter chill, helping to prepare the bulb for spring growth and eventual flowering.
The key to success with spring-planted bulbs is immediate action once the soil becomes workable and the threat of severe frost has passed. Unlike tulips and daffodils, lily bulbs lack a protective tunic, making them prone to drying out or deteriorating if stored for too long after purchase. Planting them promptly ensures they can begin root development without delay.
Preparing the Bulbs and Soil
Successful planting starts with the soil, which must be well-draining to prevent the bulbs from rotting. Lilies thrive in soil amended with organic matter like compost or aged manure, which improves drainage and fertility. They prefer a location that receives full sun (six to eight hours a day), though light afternoon shade can be beneficial in hotter climates.
When preparing the planting hole, dig down to a depth approximately three times the height of the bulb. This deep planting encourages the stem to develop supportive roots above the bulb, which helps stabilize the tall plant and keeps the bulb cool during high summer temperatures. The bulb should be placed in the hole with the pointed growing tip facing upward and the roots spread gently downward.
Spacing between bulbs is important for air circulation and growth, generally ranging from 8 to 18 inches apart, depending on the specific variety. After covering the bulb with soil, gently tamp the area and water thoroughly to settle the soil around the bulb. This initial watering ensures the bulb has the moisture it needs to begin rooting immediately.
Managing First-Year Growth and Blooms
Gardeners should adjust expectations for the first growing season. While the bulbs will sprout foliage and grow a stem, they often prioritize root and bulb establishment over flower production. It is common for a spring-planted lily to produce a smaller bloom, a delayed bloom, or even skip flowering entirely in its first year.
Once the stem and foliage emerge from the soil, the plant benefits from consistent moisture, especially if rainfall is less than one inch per week. Light feeding is also helpful, and a balanced liquid fertilizer applied every two weeks during the active growth phase can support the plant’s establishment. After the stem has finished flowering, or if it produced foliage only, do not cut the stem back.
The leaves must be allowed to photosynthesize and remain on the plant until they naturally turn yellow or brown in the fall. This process captures energy and stores it back into the bulb, ensuring reserves are available for robust, full-sized blooms in the second year. Even without a spectacular first-year display, the plant is successfully establishing the foundation for a perennial show in all subsequent seasons.