Can I Plant a Potted Easter Lily Outside?

Easter lilies are beautiful, fragrant flowers that are commonly given as gifts during the spring season. If you received a potted Easter lily, you may be wondering if it's possible to plant it in your garden. The good news is that it is possible to plant a potted Easter lily outside, but there are a few things you'll need to keep in mind.

Preparing the Soil

Before you can plant your Easter lily outside, it's important to prepare the soil. Easter lilies prefer well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. They also prefer soil that is slightly acidic, with a pH level of around 6.0 to 6.5. If your soil is too alkaline, you'll need to amend it with sulfur or aluminum sulfate to lower the pH level.

When preparing the soil, you'll also need to consider the location where you'll be planting your Easter lily. These flowers prefer partial shade, so choose a location that gets some sun but also has some shade during the day.

When to Plant

The best time to plant a potted Easter lily outside is in the fall, after the plant has finished blooming. This will give the plant enough time to establish its roots before the winter season. If you live in a colder climate, you may want to wait until the spring to plant your Easter lily outside.

Planting the Easter Lily

When planting your Easter lily outside, dig a hole that is twice as wide and deep as the pot the plant came in. Gently remove the plant from the pot and loosen the roots if they are tightly wound. Place the plant in the hole and backfill with soil, making sure the plant is level with the ground. Water the plant thoroughly after planting.

Caring for Your Easter Lily

Once your Easter lily is planted outside, there are a few things you'll need to do to care for it. Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged, and fertilize the plant every two to three weeks with a balanced fertilizer. You may also want to add a layer of mulch around the plant to help retain moisture.

As the weather starts to get colder, you'll need to prepare your Easter lily for winter. Cut back the stem to about 3 inches above ground level, and cover the plant with a layer of mulch or leaves to protect it from the cold. In the spring, remove the mulch and new growth should appear.

In Conclusion

Planting a potted Easter lily outside is possible, but it does require some preparation and care. Remember to prepare the soil, choose a good location, and plant the lily at the right time of year. With the proper care, your Easter lily will grow and bloom year after year, adding beauty and fragrance to your garden.