Winter can be a challenging time for plants, but with the right care, your lilies can survive the cold and bloom beautifully year after year. Lilies are hardy in cold climates, but they still need some attention to ensure their survival. In this guide, we will take you through the essential steps to overwinter your lilies successfully.
In-Ground Care
Lilies are quite resilient when it comes to cold weather, but they need well-draining soil to thrive. Excessive moisture can lead to mold and rot, compromising the plant’s health and reducing flower production. To ensure successful overwintering, choose a planting site with good drainage.
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If your soil tends to become waterlogged, you can create planting hills or mounds to improve drainage. Adding one-third grit, such as landscape sand or pea gravel, to the soil will also help water flow away from the bulbs and roots. For more detailed information on planting and care, check out our comprehensive guide on growing lilies.
Once the flowering has finished, reduce watering and allow the foliage to naturally wither and die back. Cut back the stems to ground level using shears, being careful not to disturb the roots. In areas without reliable snow cover, apply a thick layer of mulch, such as bark or straw, to protect the bulbs from freezing temperatures.
Container Care
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If you’re growing lilies in containers, proper care is essential for their survival during winter. Start by removing any dead stems, foliage, and debris from the soil surface. Cover the soil with a generous layer of mulch to insulate the bulbs.
To prevent standing water, remove saucers from under the pots. In areas with heavy rainfall, tilt the pots at a 45-degree angle to allow water to drain off and prevent waterlogged soil. If possible, move the containers to a sheltered spot, such as under eaves or in the rain shadow of a wall.
While you want to avoid letting the soil dry out completely, be mindful not to overwater your lilies in containers. If there’s no rainfall, lightly water them once a month to keep the bulbs hydrated. It’s important to note that bringing lilies indoors to heated locations is not recommended, as they require cool winter conditions to bloom abundantly.
Lift and Store
If you prefer to lift and store your lilies for winter, wait until the foliage has completely withered and died back. Use a garden fork or spade to carefully dig out the bulbs, taking care not to damage the roots. Gently remove the soil from the roots using your fingers or a brush.
After removing the soil, place the bulbs in a single layer on cardboard or newspaper in a warm, dry location away from direct sunlight. Let them dry for about a week. Check the bulbs for any signs of disease, such as mold or mushiness, and discard any unhealthy ones.
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Lightly dust the bulbs with a fungicidal powder, such as garden sulfur, and place them in breathable bags, boxes, or bins lined with dry packing materials like coir or shredded paper. Make sure the bulbs are well spaced and not touching each other to prevent the spread of mold and rot. Fill any gaps with more packing material, covering the bulbs almost entirely.
Store the bulbs in a cool, dark, and dry environment with good air circulation. The ideal temperature range for storage is between 35 and 55°F. Regularly check on your bulbs for any signs of mold, rot, or shrinkage. Remove and dispose of any bulbs that show signs of damage.
Remember, lilies don’t have a moisture-retaining tunic, which makes them prone to drying out in storage. If you notice any wrinkling or shrinking, lightly mist or add a few drops of water to the packing material. It’s better to check and water gently on a weekly basis than to risk overwatering and causing rot.
When spring arrives and the ground has warmed to 55°F, you can replant your lilies outdoors. Give them a fresh start in the garden and enjoy their vibrant blooms once again.
By following these simple steps, you can successfully overwinter your lilies and ensure their longevity. With a little care and attention, your lilies will continue to bring beauty to your garden year after year. So, go ahead and get ready to enjoy those fabulous flowers!
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Category: Lily
