The true lily, a member of the genus Lilium, is a popular perennial flower grown from a bulb, known for its dramatic height and large, often fragrant, blooms. The Lilium family is diverse, featuring many hybrid groups that bloom sequentially. These varieties allow gardeners in many climates to enjoy continuous color and form for several months. The specific bloom time is dependent on the lily’s genetic lineage and local environmental factors like temperature and moisture. Understanding the different bloom windows is the first step toward having a successful and prolonged lily display.
Understanding the Varied Bloom Windows
The lily season generally begins in early summer and can extend well into late summer, depending on the specific hybrid groups planted. By staggering the planting of various types, it is possible to create a continuous display from June through August.
The earliest lilies to appear are the Asiatic hybrids, which typically begin blooming in early to mid-summer, often around June. These lilies are known for their wide range of colors and upward-facing flowers, though they are generally unscented.
As the Asiatic blooms begin to fade, the mid-season varieties take over, primarily the Trumpet and Aurelian hybrids. These types, which often reach heights of five to six feet, typically bloom in mid-summer. They are easily identifiable by their large, waxy, trumpet-shaped flowers and their intense, sweet fragrance.
Finally, the season is brought to a close by the Oriental hybrids, which are the last to bloom, starting in mid- to late summer. These highly fragrant flowers often reach six to nine inches across. Their late bloom time extends into August and sometimes September.
Essential Planting Timing for Seasonal Success
Lily bulbs can be successfully planted in either the fall or the early spring, with each season offering distinct advantages. Planting in the fall, ideally at least four weeks before the ground freezes, allows the bulbs to establish a robust root system over winter. This period of dormancy and rooting contributes to a stronger start and more vigorous growth the following spring.
However, spring planting is a viable option. Spring-planted bulbs, which are often pre-chilled, are eager to grow and may produce first-year flowers faster than their fall-planted counterparts, though the initial display may be modest. The planting depth is also a factor in success, as most Lilium bulbs should be planted deeply, usually three to four times the height of the bulb itself. This deep placement helps to keep the bulb cool during summer heat and provides stability for the tall stems.
Post-Bloom Maintenance and Preparation for Next Year
Once the seasonal show of flowers has finished, proper maintenance is necessary to ensure the bulbs have sufficient energy for the following year’s blooms. The immediate task after flowering is deadheading, which involves removing the spent flowers from the stem. This action prevents the plant from diverting energy into seed production. The flower stalk should be snipped just below the faded bloom, taking care not to remove any healthy foliage.
The green leaves and stem must be left intact for as long as possible. Through photosynthesis, this foliage captures and converts sunlight into carbohydrates, which are then stored in the bulb to fuel the next season’s growth. The stem and leaves should only be cut back after they have naturally turned yellow or brown and died down. In colder zones, applying a layer of mulch over the planting area after the foliage dies back can provide insulation and protect the dormant bulb from extreme winter temperatures.