In the majority of areas, lily bulbs should be planted in the fall, at least four weeks before the first fall frost date. Autumn bulb planting will result in well-established roots by spring. The winter frost helps the bulbs grow large blooms.
To a depth of 12 to 15 inches, loosen the soil. The bulbs should be inserted pointed side up and three times as deep as their height. The deep planting helps to stabilise the plant and may even do away with the requirement for staking by encouraging the growing stem to send out roots.
For the majority of lilies, zones 5 to 8 are optimal. Some are tougher than others, such as L. canadense and L. cernuum, which can withstand Zone 3's chill but frequently cannot withstand Zones 6 or 7's heat. L. longiflorum, an Easter lily, favours Zones 7 to 9.
Lilies require at least six hours of full sun, and they prefer it. "Head in the sun, feet in the shadow" is a lily favourite expression. Plant them beside lesser annuals, perennial, or grasses to maintain their roots cool.
The majority of lilies prefer rich, but not excessively meaty, soil, but the Orienpet lilies are not picky eaters and can withstand a leaner diet. The crucial problem is drainage. If given the choice, lilies would prefer to have them planted in a raised bed or berm where water may drain away from the bulbs.
Water liberally while a plant is actively growing, especially if the weekly rainfall is less than an inch. From planting until six weeks after flowering, apply a liquid fertiliser with a high potassium content every two weeks. Each spring, apply a small coating of compost, then a 2-inch layer of mulch.
Wonderful cut flowers include lilies. A third or more of the stem should not be removed, though. Consuming more than that can make a plant weaker and shorter-lived because it uses its leaf to produce energy.
Several plants other than real lilies also go by the name "lily," thus it might be deceptive. Lilies aren't anything like daylilies, water lilies, lilies-of-the-valley, or lilyturf. It appears that identity theft has existed for a very long time—far before computers and credit cards—given the number of other plants that share the name "lily."
Gray mould can occasionally be an issue, particularly in a damp, chilly spring or summer. Ensure sure there is adequate airflow and that the lilies are not overcrowded. Although certain cultivars are virus-tolerant, viruses carried by aphids can be problematic.