How to Plant Giant Tree Lily Bulbs

If you're looking to add some beautiful, tall blooms to your garden, consider planting giant tree lilies. These majestic flowers are known for their height, reaching up to 8 feet tall, and their stunning colors. However, planting giant tree lily bulbs requires some preparation and care. Here are some steps to help you plant and care for these impressive perennials.

Step 1: Choose a Planting Location

The first step to planting giant tree lily bulbs is to choose the right location. These plants thrive in well-draining soil and full sun or partial shade. Make sure the planting site receives at least six hours of sunlight a day, while providing some shade during the hottest parts of the day.

Step 2: Prepare the Soil

Giant tree lilies prefer neutral to slightly acidic soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.0. If your soil is too acidic, add lime to raise the pH level. To improve drainage, mix compost or sand into the soil. A good balance of organic matter can also help improve the soil's fertility.

Step 3: Plant the Bulbs

Plant the giant tree lily bulbs in the fall, ideally six weeks before the first frost. Dig a hole about 6 to 8 inches deep and place the bulbs with the pointy end facing up. Make sure each bulb is at least 12 inches apart from each other, as these plants require space to grow. Cover the bulbs with soil and water thoroughly.

Step 4: Water and Fertilize

Giant tree lilies require regular watering, especially during the growing season. Water them deeply at least once a week, or more frequently during hot, dry weather. Apply a slow-release fertilizer in early spring and again in the fall to promote healthy growth and blooms.

Step 5: Provide Support

As giant tree lilies grow tall, they require support to prevent them from bending or breaking. Staking the stems is a good way to provide support. Use bamboo stakes or other materials that are strong enough to support the heavy blooms. You should also tie the stems to the stakes using soft ties or gardening tape; this will prevent any damage to the stems while they're growing.

Step 6: Prune After Flowering

After giant tree lilies have finished flowering, prune the stems down to about six inches above the soil line. This will encourage new growth and prevent the plant from producing energy-sapping seed pods. Removing spent blooms also helps reduce the risk of disease or pest problems.

Step 7: Winter Care

Giant tree lilies are hardy perennials that can survive the winter season. However, they still require some care to ensure they return strong and healthy in the spring. Mulch the planting area with a layer of organic material, such as shredded leaves or straw. This helps protect the soil from freezing and thawing cycles, which can damage the roots. You should also cut back any old foliage and apply a layer of compost or slow-release fertilizer to the soil.

Planting and caring for giant tree lily bulbs requires some effort, but the results are worth it. These majestic plants are sure to impress with their towering height and stunning blooms. With the right soil, water, and light, you can enjoy the beauty of giant tree lilies in your garden for years to come.