A hybrid form of the lilium, asiatic lilies have medium sized flowers that face either upwards or outwards. Most asiatic lilies are unscented but they come in a large variety of colours and are great as cut flowers. Asiatic lilies are hardy bulbs that flower in spring to late summer. These lily bulbs don’t complete go dormant in winter, so it’s important not to let them dry out over the colder months. You can keep them in the ground over winter once the bulb is established.

Botanical name: Liliums

Height: 2-4 ft / 60-120 cm

Spacing: 9-15 in / 20-40 cm

Bloom time: Spring to Mid summer.

Foliage: Deciduous, smooth-textured.

Soil: Requires good drainage. Mulch or plant with companion plants to keep the roots cool.

Sun: Prefers full sun (6-8 hours) or part shade to the leaves and flowers, but keep the roots cool by planting a companion plant or mulching.

Water: Average. Water regularly to keep it moist but don’t overwater, lilies don’t like wet feet. Aim for the roots when watering.

When to plant: Anytime between autumn and spring.

How to plant: Plant bulbs 2-4 in / 5-10 cm deep. Large bulbs should be planted 4-6 in / 10-15 cm deep.

Suggested soil: 1/3 potting mix, 1/3 peat moss, 1/3 perlite or sand. Avoid adding organic fertilisers like manure to the soil mix, instead, top dress with manure after flowering. Mulch is highly recommended to keep the roots cool.

Fertilising: Fertilise in spring with phosphorus-rich formula (eg 5-10-10). Slow release fertilisers work well.

Seed collecting: Allow pods to dry on plant then break open to collect seeds.

Pests & Diseases: Few pests. I’ve heard that rabbits, deer and slugs like to eat the emerging shoots. Aphids can also be a problem and fungus can cause red-brown leaf spots.

Tips:

• Divide clumps every 3-5 years.
• Fertilise with complete fertiliser before and after flowering.
• If you’re cutting the flowers, leave at least one third (1/3) of the stalk so the bulb can continue to feed for the next season’s growth.
• Plant in groups of 3 or 5 identical bulbs for best effect.
• Deadhead flowers as they fade (ie, cut off the flowers as they die).
• Avoid allowing the lily to produce seeds as the plant’s energy will be used for seed production instead of being stored for next season’s growth (ie, deadhead).
• Once the foliage fades, cut the stem just above the soil line. I leave about an inch above ground.
• Hide fading lilies with companion plants, they also keep the roots cool! If you’re growing lilies in a pot like me, go for a low growing flowering perennial. That way you’ll have a pretty foliage plant during winter, and gorgeous flowers during summer.
• If you’re looking for fragrant lilies, try Oriental lilies. Asiatics don’t have much fragrance.