Lily

Stars of the perennial border, summer-flowering lilies are tall, colorful, majestic, and often very fragrant.

About This Plant

Huge trumpet-shaped flowers on tall stems make lilies focal points in full bloom. Numerous types: pink, gold, red, orange, white. Bloom early summer to fall. Some extremely fragrant; all good for large arrangements.

Special Features

• Fragrant
• Good for cut flowers

Site Selection

Full sun to light shade, well-drained soil. Most prefer slightly acidic soil (except Madonna lilies).

Planting Instructions

Spring or fall, space 8–18 inches. Loosen soil 12–15 inches, add 2–4 inches compost. Hole ~6 inches deep. Set bulb pointy end up, fill, firm. Water thoroughly. If voles/mice are a problem, plant in buried wire cages.

Care

Spring: thin compost + 2-inch mulch. Water if rainfall <1 inch/week. Stake tall varieties. As flowers fade, cut stalks to base.