I have always been captivated by the beauty of lilies in my garden. Among the various types, there is one that stands out above the rest – the magnificent double tiger lily. Its vibrant orange flowers adorned with dark spots never fail to mesmerize me every mid-summer. Growing tiger lilies is a breeze, and I am excited to share with you this guide to ensure your own garden blooms with these stunning flowers.
What Makes a Tiger Lily Special?
Tiger lilies are known by two botanical names – Lilium tigrinum and Lilium lancifolium. Originally from China and Japan, these hardy flowers can thrive in a wide range of climates, specifically USDA Plant Hardiness Zones 3 through 8. Standing tall at three to four feet, tiger lilies unleash their captivating blooms during mid-summer, much like mine.
You're reading: Guide to Growing Stunning Tiger Lilies
Various Types of Tiger Lilies
The tiger lilies available today are carefully selected varieties known for their distinct characteristics. Let’s explore a few of these captivating choices:
- Improved Orange Tiger Lily (Lilium tigrinum splendens ‘Improved’): Recognized for larger flowers with darker spots, these lilies add a touch of grandeur to any garden.
- Yellow Star Tiger Lily (Lilium tigrinum splendens ‘Yellow Star’): If orange doesn’t suit your garden’s color palette, these lilies offer a vibrant yellow alternative.
- Double Tiger Lily (Lilium lancifolium ‘Flore Pleno’): With extra petals that make them truly stand out, this variety brings a unique charm to your garden.
Planting Tiger Lilies: In the Ground and in a Container
In the Ground
Tiger lilies are typically sold as bulbs in the fall or spring. When ordering bulbs online, most nurseries ship them in the fall, which provides the best planting opportunity. If purchasing in the spring, aim to plant them as early as possible, even before your garden becomes frost-free.
Choose a spot in your garden that receives mostly full sun, although tiger lilies can also tolerate partial shade, especially during the hottest part of the afternoon. Ensure the soil is well-drained to prevent bulb rot.
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Plant the tiger lily bulbs with the tip two inches deep into the soil. Since tiger lilies grow up to six to eight inches wide, you can space them as close as eight inches apart. Remember to position them at the back of your flower bed with other taller flowers.
In a Container
Opt for a spacious container with excellent drainage for your tiger lilies. Fill it with potting soil that also drains well. If the soil is not adequately draining, mix two parts potting soil with one part sand to enhance drainage.
Plant the bulbs at least two inches deep in the container. Tiger lilies require chilling before they can bloom, so plant them in early spring and place the pot in a cold frame or an unheated space. Once the risk of heavy frost has passed, bring the container out into the open.
Caring for Tiger Lilies
Tiger lilies are relatively low-maintenance, but a little care can go a long way in ensuring their health and vibrancy.
Watering
Like most plants, tiger lilies appreciate even moisture. During regular rainfall, they often receive sufficient hydration. However, during dry periods, especially in the first year of growth, make sure to water your lilies with around one inch of water per week. To prevent drying out, apply a light layer of mulch around the plants.
Fertilizer
If your soil is rich enough, you may not need to fertilize your tiger lilies at all. However, if you are uncertain or notice inadequate growth, apply a flowering plant fertilizer early in the year. In-ground tiger lilies require less frequent fertilization compared to those in containers, which benefit from weekly treatments as they continue to grow.
Pruning
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Pruning tiger lilies is generally unnecessary, except for removing spent blooms. Allow the foliage to grow until it turns yellow. If you desire fresh flowers for arrangements, select those that have just started to open. Placed in a vase with fresh water, they should last for approximately two weeks.
Overwintering
Tiger lilies planted in the ground will naturally overwinter. Once the stems and leaves have yellowed in the fall, trim them back at ground level.
For tiger lilies in containers, cease watering as fall approaches and cut them back when they turn yellow. Then, relocate the container to a cool and dry area such as an unheated shed, garage, or cold frame. Keep in mind that tiger lilies may only thrive in containers for a few years.
Important Note: Tiger Lilies and Cats
It is crucial to be aware that tiger lilies are toxic to cats. Ensure that your feline friends are kept away from these plants to prevent any harm.
Can Other Lilies Coexist with Tiger Lilies?
While you can certainly plant other types of lilies alongside tiger lilies, it is important to note that certain tiger lilies may carry a disease called lily mosaic virus. Although it does not harm the tiger lilies themselves, it can distort the leaves of other lilies. Exercise caution and consider keeping them separate to protect the health of your other lily varieties.
Happy planting, and may your garden be adorned with the captivating beauty of tiger lilies!
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Category: Lily
