How to grow Lilium
Lilium are bulbous perennial plants with tall, erect stems that showcase sporadic growing foliage and clusters of bowl or trumpet-shaped blooms, often releasing a sweet fragrance during summer. Lilium are produced in a range of colours including white, yellow, orange and red. They are best suited to city and courtyard gardens within an informal garden setting, making a great addition to pots and containers. You should expect to see Lilium grow to an approximate height of 60-90cm (24-36”) and a spread of 30cm (12”).
Please be aware that Lilies are HIGHLY TOXIC to cats.
Key Information
Soil pH
Position
Hardiness
Where & when to plant Urginea
Urginea are large bulbs which form clumps just on the surface of the soil. For best results, they should be planted in the autumn, in to moist but well-drained soil. They prefer a sunny spot but can cope with part shade. If you are not ready to plant your Leucojum bulbs when you receive them, store in a cool, dry, well-ventilated place in temperatures between 4-20°C for a short while but be careful they do not dry out too much. Alternatively, you could plant them in moist compost in a pot until you are ready.
How to plant Lilium
Lilium are best planted in moist, well-drained soil of loam within an acidic PH balance. They are best positioned in an area of part shade, sheltered from intense midday heat. Amend heavy soil with a generous amount of organic matter as this will improve drainage whilst nourishing the native planting area. Dig a hole that is the same depth and width as your bulb with the tip pointing upward. Space companion plants with enough space to spread as they mature. After planting, water thoroughly and deeply.
What to plant with Urginea
Urginea are imposing plants, creating a dramatic statement when planted alone, creating quite an impressive clump when they have naturalised.
However, when grown amongst grasses or interspersed Allium they look incredible.
When choosing companion plants, think about the growing conditions that are preferred by each plant. Maybe grow Urginia maritima with Allium Forelock, Moly or Hair – the almost globe-like spheres of blooms will hover above the foliage but will have faded by the time the Urginea flowers have fully developed so will not detract from the spectacle.
Whether grown in borders or containers, the period when the foliage is absent could be filled with a low growing, evergreen carpet of Delosperma Suntropics Purple, Copper or Red, which become covered with bright almost neon coloured daisy-like flowers from spring until the first frosts.
How to care for Lilium
Throughout active growth water Lilium freely especially during periods of drought. Ensure the roots are kept cool and are not exposed to direct sunlight. Apply a high potassium liquid feed every fortnight throughout active growth to improve the quality and healthy of both flowers and foliage. Leave the foliage in place until it starts to turn brown as this will absorb energy for the following season. Apply a mulch during the winter to retain moisture levels whilst suppressing weeds.
How to propagate Lilium
It is possible to propagate Lilium by seed.
