Surprise lilies (Lycoris squamigera), often called Magic Lilies or Naked Ladies, are perennial bulbs known for their unique bloom cycle. Their foliage appears in spring, then dies back, only for striking pink, trumpet-shaped flowers to suddenly emerge on bare stalks in late summer or early fall. Storing these bulbs indoors is often necessary to protect them from harsh winter conditions or for relocation. This ensures the bulbs remain healthy and viable for future displays.
Preparing Bulbs for Storage
Preparation of surprise lily bulbs for storage begins once their foliage naturally dies back, typically in late summer or early fall. This indicates the bulbs have entered dormancy and stored sufficient energy for the next growth cycle. Carefully lift the bulbs from the soil, digging several inches away from the plant to avoid accidental damage. A garden fork is often more suitable than a spade for gently loosening the soil around the bulbs.
Once unearthed, gently remove excess soil, taking care not to damage their delicate outer layers. Inspect each bulb for signs of disease, rot, or physical damage; discard compromised bulbs to prevent the spread of issues during storage. After cleaning, air-dry, or “cure,” the bulbs for several days in a cool, dark, well-ventilated area. This step helps prevent mold and rot during storage by allowing the bulb’s outer layers to dry and harden.
Optimal Storage Conditions
After proper curing, storing surprise lily bulbs requires specific environmental conditions to maintain dormancy and health. An optimal temperature range is 40-50°F (4-10°C), ensuring bulbs remain cool but do not freeze. Too-warm temperatures can cause premature sprouting, while freezing temperatures damage bulbs. The storage area should also maintain slight humidity, preventing the bulbs from completely drying out, but not be wet, as excessive moisture promotes rot and fungal growth.
Good air circulation is important during storage to prevent moisture accumulation and maintain a stable environment. Suitable storage mediums include peat moss, vermiculite, sawdust, or shredded newspaper, which absorb excess moisture and provide insulation. Place bulbs in breathable containers like mesh bags, paper bags, or open crates, ensuring they do not touch to minimize the risk of spreading issues. If using layers, separate them with the chosen storage medium. Ideal locations include a cool basement, an unheated garage, or a cellar where temperatures remain consistent and above freezing.
Retrieving and Replanting
As winter ends and spring approaches, typically late winter to early spring before the last expected frost, retrieve surprise lily bulbs from storage. Upon retrieval, carefully inspect each bulb for any changes that occurred during dormancy. Look for signs of rot, mold, or desiccation, which indicate issues with the storage conditions. Discard any bulbs that feel soft, appear shriveled, or show fungal growth, as they are unlikely to recover and could introduce pathogens to the planting site.
Healthy bulbs should feel firm and plump, indicating successful energy reserve maintenance. While slight shriveling might occur if humidity was too low, severely shriveled bulbs are not viable. Replant surprise lily bulbs outdoors in mid to late spring, after the danger of the last frost has passed and the soil has warmed. Plant bulbs 8 to 12 inches deep, with about 6 inches of spacing, in well-drained soil.
Common Storage Problems
Storing surprise lily bulbs can encounter common issues, primarily related to improper environmental conditions. Bulb rot is a frequent problem, typically resulting from excessive moisture or inadequate ventilation during storage. To prevent this, ensure bulbs are thoroughly air-dried before storage and packed in breathable, well-ventilated containers.
Conversely, bulbs may shrivel if the storage environment is too dry or warm, causing moisture loss. Maintaining a slightly humid environment and a consistent cool temperature mitigates this. Mold or fungal growth can occur due to high humidity or insufficient air circulation. Regular checks allow for early detection and removal of affected bulbs, preventing spread to healthy ones.