“Lilly Luna” refers to a specific lily cultivar, cherished for its distinctive beauty and captivating blooms. Its striking appearance makes it a desirable addition for many gardeners seeking to enhance their outdoor spaces.
Understanding Lilly Luna
The Lilly Luna cultivar includes ‘Pura Luna’ and ‘Roselily Luna’, each with distinct physical attributes. ‘Pura Luna’, an Asiatic lily, features slender stalks topped with clusters of double flowers. These plants reach 10 to 12 inches tall and bloom in summer. ‘Roselily Luna’, an Oriental hybrid, is compact with a high bud count and dark green, medium-slim leaves. Its pristine white blooms are pollen-free, offering a clean and appealing display.
Planting Lilly Luna
Lilly Luna thrives in locations that receive full sun to partial sun exposure. Proper site selection is important for robust growth and abundant flowering.
They prefer moist, well-drained soil. Amend heavy clay soils with compost to improve drainage, and sandy soils to enhance moisture retention. A slightly acidic to neutral soil pH (6.0-7.0) is suitable.
Plant bulbs in fall before ground freeze, or in early spring when soil is workable. Plant bulbs about 6 inches deep, pointed side up, and 4 to 8 inches apart. This spacing allows for air circulation and root development. Proper depth protects bulbs from temperature fluctuations and promotes strong stem growth.
Caring for Lilly Luna
Lilly Luna requires consistent moisture, especially as flower buds form and during active growth. Avoid waterlogging, which can lead to bulb rot.
Water deeply, allowing the top inch or two of soil to dry slightly between applications. More frequent watering may be needed during dry spells or intense heat. Apply a balanced, slow-release granular fertilizer in early spring as new growth emerges, or a liquid feed every few weeks during blooming.
Deadhead spent blooms to direct energy into bulb development. Taller varieties may need staking in windy conditions to prevent heavy blooms from bending or breaking stems. This helps maintain upright posture and showcases the floral display.
Common Issues and Solutions
Even with proper care, Lilly Luna can encounter pests and diseases. The scarlet lily beetle, a bright red pest, can defoliate plants. Hand-pick beetles and larvae from leaf undersides to manage infestations. Submerge collected beetles in soapy water for disposal.
Aphids cluster on new growth and flower buds, feeding on plant sap. Dislodge them with a strong water spray, or apply insecticidal soap for severe infestations. Fungal diseases like Botrytis blight, appearing as brown spots on leaves and flowers, occur in humid conditions. Ensure good air circulation and avoid overhead watering to prevent it. If blight appears, remove and destroy affected plant parts to prevent spread. Basal rot, a fungal bulb disease, is caused by overly wet soil; improving drainage is the primary preventative measure.