Lily of the Valley, known botanically as Convallaria majalis, is a cherished spring flower recognized by its delicate, bell-shaped white blooms and intensely sweet fragrance. While traditionally a garden perennial thriving in shaded woodland environments, it is entirely possible to cultivate this charming plant indoors. By employing specific techniques, you can successfully “force” Lily of the Valley to bloom, bringing its delightful appearance and aroma into your home during any season.
Benefits of Indoor Cultivation
Growing Lily of the Valley indoors offers unique advantages, extending the enjoyment of this seasonal bloom. Cultivating these fragrant flowers inside allows their beauty to be appreciated during colder months, providing a welcome burst of cheer when the garden lies dormant. Indoor forcing enables individuals to experience the characteristic fragrance of Lily of the Valley up close, enhancing the home environment. Control over the plant’s environment indoors also facilitates its use for decorative purposes, such as creating seasonal displays.
Forcing Lily of the Valley Indoors
The process of forcing Lily of the Valley indoors begins with selecting healthy dormant rootstock, commonly called “pips.” These pips, resembling small, pointed buds from fibrous roots, can be sourced from reputable garden centers or online. Choose plump, firm pips free from rot or desiccation.
Pips require a sufficient chilling period, mimicking their natural winter dormancy. If not pre-chilled, they need approximately 6 to 8 weeks of cold exposure at 35°F to 40°F (1°C to 4°C). Store them in a paper bag or peat moss in a refrigerator, ensuring they do not freeze.
Once chilling is met, or if using pre-chilled pips, they are ready for potting. Select shallow pots or containers (4-6 inches) with drainage holes. Use a well-draining potting mix, such as one for houseplants or a peat moss/perlite mixture. Plant pips closely, with pointed tips just barely emerging from the soil surface, leaving the root portion covered.
After potting, water thoroughly until moisture drains from the bottom. Initially, place pots in a cool, dark location (50-60°F / 10-15°C), such as a basement or closet. This environment encourages root development before top growth. After approximately two to four weeks, when shoots emerge, gradually introduce pots to brighter, warmer conditions to encourage blooming.
Ongoing Indoor Care
Once Lily of the Valley pips sprout and are moved to brighter conditions, consistent care supports their growth and bloom. They thrive in bright, indirect light; positioning them near a window that receives filtered sunlight is ideal. Direct, intense sunlight can scorch delicate leaves and shorten the bloom period.
Maintain consistent moisture levels in the potting mix. The soil should remain evenly moist but never waterlogged, as excessive wetness can lead to root rot. Check soil moisture daily by feeling the top inch; water when it feels slightly dry. Ensure proper drainage.
Optimal temperatures for indoor Lily of the Valley range between 60-70°F (15-21°C) during the day, with slightly cooler nights. Average household humidity is sufficient. Fertilization is not necessary during their brief indoor bloom cycle, as pips contain enough stored energy for flowering. After blooms fade, foliage continues to grow for a period before naturally declining.
Safety Precautions
All parts of the Lily of the Valley plant are toxic if ingested. This includes flowers, leaves, stems, and berries, which contain cardiac glycosides. Ingestion can lead to symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, irregular heartbeat, and severe cardiac issues.
Due to its toxicity, handle the plant with care. Wearing gloves is advisable when potting or pruning to prevent skin irritation. Position indoor Lily of the Valley plants out of reach of small children and pets. In the event of accidental ingestion, immediately contact a poison control center or a veterinarian for guidance.