Planting Easter Lilies: A Comprehensive Guide
Easter Lily Symbolism and History
Easter lilies, with their showy white blooms, are closely associated with the Easter holiday. This association stems from their symbolic representation of purity and rebirth, which resonate strongly with the themes of Easter. Native to Japan, Easter lilies first arrived in Bermuda, where they were known as “Bermuda lilies.” Their connection to the Easter holiday emerged much later in the Western hemisphere.
Planting Easter Lilies Outdoors
To enjoy the vibrant blooms of Easter lilies year after year, planting them outside is recommended. Easter lilies thrive as perennials in USDA hardiness zones 5 to 8. However, it’s important to note that they are “forced” flowers, meaning greenhouse growers manipulate their environment to induce blooming before Easter.
When to Plant
Plant Easter lilies in the ground after they have finished blooming and nighttime temperatures have reached at least 55 degrees Fahrenheit. Ensure that there is no risk of frost and the soil is workable.
Site Selection
Choose a planting site that receives ample sunlight and has well-draining soil. If your soil lacks drainage, amend it with compost and sand to improve its structure.
Planting Instructions
Before planting, acclimate your Easter lily to outdoor conditions by gradually exposing it to outdoor temperatures for several hours each day over several days.
Once acclimated, remove the lily from its pot and plant it in the ground at the same depth it was in the container. Position the bulb about 6 inches underground. Water thoroughly after planting.
Apply a 3-inch layer of mulch around the plant to maintain cool root temperatures in summer and protect it during winter. Remove the mulch in spring.
Allow the foliage to grow throughout the summer and into the fall before pruning. Provide ample spacing between Easter lilies and other plants, ideally 1 to 2 feet apart.
Care and Maintenance
Watering
Water Easter lilies regularly to maintain evenly moist soil. Even when the leaves turn brown, continue watering as the bulb remains underground and requires moisture. Avoid overwatering or allowing the soil to dry out completely.
Fertilization
Fertilize Easter lilies at the time of planting with a bulb fertilizer or an all-purpose fertilizer. While some gardeners experience successful growth without fertilization, proper fertilization can enhance plant longevity.
Pruning
Prune Easter lilies when the leaves start to brown, typically during the summer. Cut the plant down to ground level (or nearly so) to promote new growth later in the season.
Propagation
Divide long-established bulbs in late summer or fall after the foliage has browned. This process rejuvenates older plants and promotes multiplication.
Pest Management
In some areas, the red lily leaf beetle can pose a threat to Easter lilies. These beetles can defoliate plants, potentially killing them. Monitor for beetles and pick them off by hand. Alternatively, apply neem oil at the first sign of infestation.
FAQs
Will Easter lilies come back every year?
Yes, with proper care when planted outside, Easter lilies will return annually.
Do Easter lilies spread?
Yes, when properly cared for and maintained, Easter lilies will spread and multiply each year.
Are Easter lilies hard to keep alive?
No, Easter lilies are not difficult to maintain. Ensure proper watering, keeping the soil evenly moist but not waterlogged or dry.
Do Easter lilies bloom a second time?
Sometimes, Easter lilies may bloom a second time during the year, typically around October. Otherwise, they will bloom again the following year in June.
