Lily bulbs are perennial favorites known for their dramatic flowers. Unlike many other bulbs, they lack a protective papery covering. This scaly structure makes them susceptible to drying out and causes them to sprout readily when exposed to warmth and moisture, often before planting. While a visible shoot indicates the bulb is healthy and ready for growth, this early development requires immediate and delicate attention during planting.
Preparing the Sprouted Bulb for Planting
Begin by checking the lily bulb, focusing on the health of the root structure and the new shoot. Examine the bulb for firmness; soft or mushy areas indicate rot, and these bulbs should be discarded. While a small amount of mold on the outer scales is common, significant mold or deep discoloration suggests a problem.
The emerging sprout is delicate and brittle, so handle the bulb by its base to avoid snapping the shoot. If the shoot breaks, the resulting bloom may be smaller or delayed as the plant must produce a replacement stem. Keep existing roots intact, but carefully trim away severely damaged or rotten roots. Because sprouting has begun, the bulb must be planted immediately to prevent the shoot from becoming weak or elongated while searching for light.
Immediate Planting Location and Technique
Selecting the right location is important for a sprouted lily. It requires full sun—at least six hours per day—for optimal flowering, though the roots prefer to stay cool. The ideal soil should be well-drained and rich in organic matter, with a slightly acidic pH between 6.0 and 6.5. Lilies will not tolerate “wet feet,” so amending the site with compost or other organic material ensures proper drainage.
The standard planting depth is two to three times the bulb’s height, typically 6 to 9 inches deep. For a bulb with a long sprout, you have two options. Plant the bulb deeper than usual to cover the entire sprout, or plant at the regular depth, allowing the shoot tip to protrude slightly above the soil line. Planting deeper provides better insulation and encourages anchoring roots, increasing the stability of the tall plant.
Place the bulb in the hole with the pointed end of the shoot facing upward, gently settling it into the loosened soil. Space the bulbs 6 to 12 inches apart, depending on the variety’s mature size, to allow for adequate air circulation. Once positioned, carefully backfill the hole with soil, gently firming it around the bulb to eliminate air pockets.
Post-Planting Care for Early Shoots
After planting, thoroughly soak the soil with water to settle the earth around the bulb and initiate root growth. While initial deep watering is necessary, subsequent watering should maintain constant moisture without becoming waterlogged. Apply a 2- to 3-inch layer of organic mulch, such as straw or shredded bark, around the emerging shoot to keep the bulb cool and conserve soil moisture.
The early shoot is vulnerable to late spring frosts and environmental damage. If a sharp temperature drop is forecast, protect the fragile shoot by covering it overnight with an inverted bucket, a cardboard box, or newspaper. Shoots that grow tall before the stem hardens are susceptible to wind damage. Placing a stake or marker near the bulb at planting provides a reference point for future support. Install this support early for taller varieties to avoid piercing the developing bulb later in the season.