Growing Lilies: Planting, Propagation, and Care for Garden and Easter Lilies

Why Lilies?

Lilies add striking beauty and drama to any garden and are popular for indoor display. They complement rock gardens, shrubs, and trees, and with proper care, they thrive for years.

Frequently Asked Questions

When should I plant lilies?

Spring or fall. Plant bulbs as soon as possible after purchase—lily bulbs do not store well.

What's the difference between a daylily and a garden lily?

• Garden lily: Grows from a true bulb; single shoot with leaves emerges directly from the bulb.
• Daylily (Hemerocallis): Grows from a corm/tuberous root; multiple leaves arise from the crown.

How deep should lily bulbs be planted?

General rule: three times the bulb's width. A 2-inch bulb goes 6 inches deep. Plant in groups for best effect—dig a hole to the proper depth and place several bulbs together.

How do I propagate lilies?

• Garden lilies: Remove a few scales in spring or fall, plant 1 inch deep.
• Daylilies: Divide corms and replant.
• Bulbils: Some lilies produce dark bulbils at leaf-stem junctions. These can be planted and will flower in 2–3 years.

Should I cut back lilies after blooming?

• Garden lilies: Remove only the spent flower stem. Leave foliage to die back naturally—it feeds the bulb for next year.
• Daylilies: Deadhead spent blooms and cut back stems to extend bloom season. Allow foliage to die back naturally after season ends.

Can Easter lilies be planted outside?

Yes, but they are forced to bloom at Easter, which can weaken them. To improve survival:

1. Plant in a sunny spot with well-drained soil.
2. Use high-quality planting mix.
3. Plant bulb 3 inches deep, then add 3 more inches of soil on top.
4. Allow space for root spread.
5. Water thoroughly after transplanting.

Quick Care Summary

Task	Garden Lily	Daylily
Planting time	Spring or fall	Fall or early spring
Planting depth	3× bulb width	½–1 inch
Post-bloom care	Remove stem only; leave foliage	Deadhead; cut stems; leave foliage
Propagation	Scales, bulbils	Division of corms

With the right timing and care, lilies will reward you with spectacular blooms season after season.