The Tiger Lily (Lilium lancifolium or Lilium tigrinum) is a widely recognized and hardy perennial celebrated for its distinctive orange flowers covered in dark speckles. This vigorous plant is popular in garden beds for its striking height, but over time, its subterranean bulbs can become overcrowded, leading to reduced flowering. Moving or dividing these established clumps is a simple process that rejuvenates the plant and increases your stock of this classic garden flower. By following specific steps for excavation, division, and replanting, you can ensure a successful transition for your tiger lilies.
Determining Optimal Timing and Site Preparation
The most favorable time to move tiger lilies is when the plant is in its dormant phase, which minimizes the shock of transplanting. This period occurs either in the late fall after the foliage has naturally died back, or in the very early spring before new shoots begin to emerge from the soil. Waiting until the leaves have yellowed ensures the bulb has stored maximum energy for the next growing season.
Careful selection of the new planting location is important. Tiger lilies thrive best in a site that receives full sun to partial shade, meaning they need a minimum of six hours of sunlight daily. The soil must be well-drained, as the bulbs are susceptible to rot if they sit in standing water.
Before any digging begins, loosen the soil in the new area to a depth of at least 12 inches. Incorporate organic matter, such as compost, to improve drainage and nutrient content. This preparation allows the bulb to establish its new root system quickly upon planting. The location should also offer protection from strong, persistent winds, which can damage the tall, flowering stems later in the season.
Proper Excavation and Bulb Division
To begin the process, cut the dead or yellowed stems back to just a few inches above the soil line. This helps you locate the plant while also reducing moisture loss. Use a garden fork or spade to loosen the soil in a wide circle, approximately 12 to 18 inches away from where the stem emerged. Digging far out from the central stalk prevents accidental damage to the fragile bulb scales and the root system.
Once the soil is sufficiently loose, gently lift the entire clump out of the ground, taking care to keep the root ball intact. Brush away the excess soil to expose the cluster of white, scale-covered bulbs. The goal of division is to separate the smaller, newly formed offset bulbs, or bulblets, from the larger, parent bulbs.
You can usually pull these offsets apart by hand, but a clean, sharp knife can be used if they are tightly clustered. Inspect every bulb for signs of damage or disease, such as soft spots or discoloration. Promptly discard any unhealthy material to prevent the spread of pathogens. The largest bulbs are ready to produce flowers immediately, while the smaller offsets will develop into blooming plants over one or two seasons.
Replanting and Initial Establishment Care
The prepared bulbs should be replanted immediately to prevent them from drying out, as lily bulbs do not go fully dormant. Dig a hole deep enough to accommodate the bulb at a depth of roughly six to eight inches, which is generally two to three times the bulb’s height. This deep planting helps anchor the tall stem and keeps the bulb cool during summer heat.
Position the bulb in the hole with the pointed growing tip facing upward and the roots spread out below it. Space the bulbs 10 to 12 inches apart to allow for proper air circulation and future growth. Backfill the hole with the amended soil, gently firming it around the bulb to eliminate any large air pockets.
Following the replanting, immediately provide a deep, thorough watering to help settle the soil around the roots and minimize transplant stress. Maintain consistent moisture in the soil, especially during the first few weeks, as the bulbs work to establish new feeder roots. Applying a two-to-three-inch layer of organic mulch over the planting area will help regulate soil temperature and retain necessary moisture. The newly transplanted lilies may show reduced vigor in the first season, but the larger, divided bulbs will typically produce healthy blooms the following year.