In the garden with GB News: Lilies - everything you need to know to get the perfect lily - planting, growing and making them last at home

Everything to know about caring for lilies

Planting

Lilies can last in gardens for many years if they are well taken care of. Lilies love bright conditions so bear this in mind when planting bulbs in the garden. It is worth noting, however, that gardeners should not plant them in direct sunlight.

Keeping the soil moist is also key, so the ground will need regularly watered during dry periods. Gardening expert at Fantastic Gardeners Nadezdha Yaneva shared more crucial advice.

She told GB News: "Caring for lilies involves special attention to lighting, watering and pruning.

"If you follow these simple tips, lilies will bloom in your garden. Lilies usually bloom in bright, indirect light - avoid direct sunlight as it can burn their leaves.

"Keep the soil consistently moist but not wet, and allow the topsoil to dry before watering again. Lilies flower well in high humidity, and you can increase the humidity by misting the leaves or placing a tub of water near the plant.

"With proper care, lilies can last for many years, as they are known for their hardiness. The exact lifespan can vary depending on factors such as care, environment, and the particular variety of lily."

Lilies like sunny, sheltered places and the bulbs need to be planted somewhere deep, such as beds, large pots or containers. Asiatic lilies will do better if planted in peat-free compost, whereas oriental lilies prefer to be planted in soil that has ericaceous compost.

When to plant

The ideal time to plant lilies is in early autumn but it is not too late for those who have forgotten to do so or want a last-minute boost in their gardens.

Lilies can be planted until early spring, so it is a job that can still be completed this month. Spring is also the best time to do extensive pruning of lilies.

How to look after lilies as they grow

Lilies can be grown outside or indoors and experts shared some things to remember when doing this. Nadezdha added: "Lilies prefer bright and indirect light in which to bloom.

"Ideal locations for this include near a north or east-facing window because these locations provide bright light without direct sunlight. Avoid placing them near windows or doors through which drafts enter.

"Lilies prefer temperatures between 18-27°C. Pruning lilies helps maintain their shape and encourages healthy growth. To do this, remove yellow or brown leaves and trim these leaves at their base with clean, sharp scissors or garden shears.

"Once the blossoms fade, cut them off at the base to stimulate new blossoms and prune the low stems to maintain a balanced look. Pruning can be done throughout the year, but spring is often the best time for more extensive pruning."

How to make lilies last at home

Lilies make a beautiful addition to any home and can be picked from your own garden or bought from a flower shop. If bringing your lilies inside, it is best to pick them when they are in the early bud stage so they can open at home.

Cut the lilies at a 45-degree angle before putting them into a vase - this will allow more water to get into the flower. Homeowners can also remove foliage so there are no leaves below the waterline in the vase.

Prepare the vase with plant food to help prolong the life of the lilies and help their colours stay bright and bold. Changing the water regularly will help the lilies thrive and it is important to place them away from direct sunlight.

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Lily care timeline

Spring

Divide flowers: Spring is the ideal time to divide and transplant lilies where needed. Gardeners can dig up overcrowded clumps of bulbs and separate them before replanting in well-prepared soil

Fetilise: Apply a balanced fertiliser to provide nutrients for strong growth

Weed: It is important to check for and remove weeds around the plants

Mulch: Add a layer of organic mulch around the base

Summer

Water: Lilies need constant watering, ensuring the soil is moist but not soggy. This is particularly important during hot and dry periods

Monitor: Gardeners should check for pests and signs of disease during the summer months, and remove threats if they are identified

Autumn

Cut back foliage: Trim foliage that is going yellow and looking dead to give the plant more energy as it prepares for dormancy

Mulch: It is time to mulch again to protect the plants from cold temperatures and fluctuations in moisture

Monitor: Check for signs of rot, damage or disease and remove bulbs that appear unhealthy

Winter

Monitor: Once the area is prepped for winter, lilies do not require much attention during this time. Gardeners should keep an eye on their plants to see if they need any attention

Looking for more tips to help you take care of your garden? GB News has shared its guide on everything you need to know about roses, including tips on how to plant them and how to make them flourish in your home.

Check out our guide on daffodils to ensure you get the perfect bloom this spring.