Temporary storage of lily bulbs is necessary when they are purchased before planting or lifted from the garden for winter protection. Unlike many other bulbs, lily bulbs lack the dry, papery outer layer, or tunic, making them highly susceptible to desiccation and rot. Proper storage conditions are paramount to maintaining the bulb’s viability, ensuring the stored energy remains intact for successful growth. The temporary environment must carefully balance temperature and moisture to prevent premature sprouting or fungal issues.
Initial Bulb Preparation
Preparation must be done immediately after acquiring or lifting the bulbs. Gently remove any loose soil clinging to the bulb structure using fingers or a soft brush, avoiding rinsing with water. Next, air-dry the bulbs for 24 to 48 hours, allowing the outer scales to dry slightly. This drying should occur in a cool, dark location out of direct sunlight to prevent moisture buildup that could lead to mold or rot. Finally, inspect each bulb carefully, discarding any that show signs of damage, mushiness, or mold, as these issues can quickly spread.
Selecting the Right Storage Medium and Container
The container and medium must provide insulation, prevent contact between bulbs, and manage moisture levels. Choose a breathable container, such as a cardboard box, a paper bag, or a plastic bin with ventilation holes. Suitable mediums include slightly dampened peat moss, sawdust, coir, or vermiculite, layered around the bulbs. The packing material surrounds the bulb, offering a stable microclimate that prevents excessive moisture loss. The medium must be only lightly moistened, not wet, because excessive dampness is the primary cause of rot.
Maintaining the Storage Environment
Maintaining a consistently cool, dark environment is necessary to keep the bulbs dormant. The ideal storage temperature range is between 35°F and 45°F (2°C to 7°C). Temperatures exceeding 45°F increase the risk of premature sprouting. Appropriate locations include an unheated basement, a root cellar, or the crisper drawer of a refrigerator, provided the bulbs are isolated from ethylene-producing fruits.
Maintaining a relative humidity of about 50% is important to prevent the bulbs from shriveling and drying out. Monitoring the bulbs monthly is necessary, as desiccation is a threat. If the bulbs appear wrinkled or shrunken, lightly misting the packing medium with water can restore hydration. Conversely, if any signs of mold or rot appear, the packing material may be too damp, requiring increased air circulation.
Duration and Transition
Lily bulbs can typically be stored for several months under optimal conditions, often from fall lifting until spring planting. They generally perform better if planted within six months of being acquired. The storage period concludes when the soil is workable and the danger of hard frost has passed. Signs of readiness may include the emergence of small green shoots, which should be handled with care to avoid breaking them. A few days before planting, bring the bulbs out of cold storage to acclimate to warmer temperatures, ensuring they are firm and healthy before placement in the garden soil.