The allure of a “Blue Moon Lily” often refers to Lilium varieties with captivating shades of lavender, purple, or cool white, as true blue is exceptionally rare in the genus. Understanding the specific needs of these elegant plants ensures they flourish, bringing distinctive charm to your garden. This guide focuses on cultivating garden lilies associated with this name, helping enthusiasts achieve successful growth and abundant flowering.
Planting and Growing Conditions
Successful lily establishment requires selecting the appropriate planting site and preparing the soil. Lilies thrive in locations receiving at least six hours of direct sunlight daily. Partial shade can be beneficial, especially in warmer climates, protecting blooms from intense afternoon sun. Providing shade for lower stems and roots helps keep the soil cool and moist.
Well-draining soil is a fundamental requirement for lilies, as bulbs are highly susceptible to rot in waterlogged conditions. Ideal soil is loamy, rich in organic matter, and slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0-7.0). Amending heavy clay soils with compost, well-rotted manure, or other organic materials significantly improves drainage and aeration. When planting, dig holes two to three times the bulb’s height, ensuring the pointed end faces upward, and space bulbs 8 to 12 inches apart.
Initial watering after planting should be thorough to settle the soil around the bulbs. During active growth, lilies require consistent moisture, about one inch of water per week from rainfall or irrigation. Water deeply, but allow the top inch or two of soil to dry slightly between waterings to prevent oversaturation. Most lilies are hardy in USDA Zones 4 through 9, though hardiness varies by cultivar.
Ongoing Care and Maintenance
Consistent care after planting helps lilies maintain vigor and produce impressive blooms. Fertilization is beneficial during the active growing season, starting in early spring when new growth emerges. A balanced, slow-release granular fertilizer (e.g., 10-10-10) or a bulb-specific formula high in phosphorus is suitable. Apply fertilizer around the plant’s base, avoiding direct contact with stems or foliage, and water thoroughly to help nutrients reach the roots.
Pruning and deadheading are important for plant health and appearance, though lilies do not rebloom after deadheading. Once individual flowers fade, remove them by snipping the spent bloom just above a set of leaves. This prevents the plant from expending energy on seed production and directs resources back to the bulb. Do not remove the main stem or foliage until they naturally yellow and die back in the fall, as leaves are crucial for photosynthesis and storing energy in the bulb for the following season.
Managing pests and diseases involves regular inspection and timely action. Common pests include aphids, which can be dislodged with a strong stream of water or treated with insecticidal soap, and the lily leaf beetle, which can be handpicked or controlled with neem oil. Fungal diseases like Botrytis blight (gray mold) can occur in humid conditions; ensuring good air circulation, avoiding overhead watering, and planting in well-drained soil helps prevent these issues. If planting lilies in regions with harsh winters, applying a layer of organic mulch in the fall can provide insulation and protect bulbs from freezing temperatures.
Common Questions and Misconceptions
The concept of a “Blue Moon Lily” often sparks curiosity regarding its color. While true blue Lilium species are exceptionally rare, garden lilies marketed with “blue” in their name typically feature shades of lavender, purple-pink, or cool white. It is important to distinguish these from other plants sometimes called “Blue Moon Lily,” such as Spathiphyllum ‘Blue Moon’ (Peace Lily), which has deep green foliage and white flowers.
Lilies generally bloom once per season, with the bloom time varying by species and cultivar. Asiatic lilies are among the earliest, flowering in late spring to early summer, while Oriental lilies bloom later, from mid to late summer. Each individual lily flower lasts for several days to a few weeks, and a single stem can produce multiple blooms, extending the overall display. By selecting a variety of lily types, gardeners can enjoy continuous blooms from early summer through fall.
A common concern for plant owners is toxicity. Lilies (Lilium species) are known to be toxic to cats, potentially causing kidney failure if ingested. For other pets and humans, ingestion can cause mild digestive upset, though severe toxicity is less common. Gardeners should keep pets, especially cats, away from lily plants.