How to Plant Lilies from a Pot

If you're looking to add some color and fragrance to your garden, lilies are a great choice. They come in a variety of colors and can be grown from bulbs or from potted plants. If you have a potted lily that you want to transfer to your garden, here's how to plant it:

Step 1: Choose the Right Spot

Lilies thrive in well-draining soil and full sunlight or partial shade. Look for a spot in your garden that gets at least six hours of direct sunlight per day, but also has some shade in the afternoon to protect the lily from the hottest part of the day. Make sure the soil is loose and well-draining. If your soil is heavy, amend it with sand or peat moss to improve drainage.

Step 2: Prepare the Soil

Before you plant your potted lily, prepare the soil by digging a hole that's about twice as wide as the pot but just as deep. Remove any rocks, roots, or weeds from the hole. Then, mix in some compost or well-rotted manure to enrich the soil.

Step 3: Water the Lily

Water the lily a few hours before transplanting it to help loosen the soil around the roots. This will make it easier to remove the lily from the pot without damaging the roots. Make sure to water the lily until water drains out the bottom of the pot.

Step 4: Remove the Lily from the Pot

To remove the lily from the pot, gently squeeze the sides of the pot and turn it upside down. Tap the bottom of the pot to loosen the soil and roots. Then, gently pull the pot off the lily. If the lily is stuck, you can use a butter knife to loosen the soil around the edges of the pot.

Step 5: Plant the Lily

Place the lily in the hole and fill in around it with soil. Make sure the top of the lily's root ball is level with the soil surface. Then, pack the soil down gently around the lily. Water the lily thoroughly to help settle the soil and remove any air pockets.

Step 6: Mulch the Lily

To help conserve moisture and keep weeds at bay, add a layer of organic mulch around the lily. This will help keep the soil cool and moist, which is important for lily growth. Avoid packing the mulch directly against the stem of the lily, as this can lead to rot or disease.

Step 7: Protect the Lily

Keep an eye on the lily for the first few weeks after planting to make sure it's settling in well. Water it regularly, especially during dry spells, and keep an eye out for any signs of pests or disease. You can also add a support stake to the lily if it's tall or top-heavy to prevent it from bending or breaking in strong winds.

With a little care and attention, your potted lily can flourish in your garden and add beauty and fragrance for years to come.