Re: lilies
- To: perennials@mallorn.com
- Subject: Re: lilies
- From: l*@teamzeon.com
- Date: Fri, 14 May 1999 16:19:28 -0400
Valerie Lowery@ZEON
05/14/99 04:19 PM
Mary,
funny you should ask about lily bulbils, because this is a current thread
on the lily list. Bulbils are the tiny bulbs that form on the underground
stems of oriental lilies (it's natural way of propagating itself). I think
the general consensus is to carefully separate the bulbils in the fall and
place them in a nursery bed of their own until they get big enough to
compete with the other bulbs for food/water. They should be well protected
from drought/cold and coddled with compost dressings until they start to
flower on their own (about 2-3 years, depending on the size of the bulbil).
Of course, having a separate nursery bed is not always feasible, although
experience from others has found that this method produces the
strongest/fattest bulbs. Another way is to plant the bulbils into
containers (like a small pot), place out into the garden in a semi-shaded
position and keep a good watch on the water. Overwinter in a cool place
such as a basement or garage so that the bulbs don't have to undergo the
rigors of freeze/thaw while in a pot. In the spring, bring back out into
the garden for the same treatment another year; replace the soil with fresh
before the bulb begins actively growing (be careful with the handling).
This seems like a lot of trouble for something that won't bloom for 2-3
years, but if you have an absolute favorite, are low on funds, or just paid
$40 for one bulb, it is worthwhile. Plus you can share all of the goodies
with your friends or perhaps swap with others. The lily list members are
generous with their treasures.
If anyone wishes, I can also share how to propagate your new lilies by
scaling. Quite easy and you can immediately increase your new bulb
purchase by at least 3 or 4 new lilies.
Val in KY
zone 6a
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