Lily Mix Bulbs

Lily Mix Bulbs stretch the flowering season by combining Asiatic, Oriental, trumpet, tiger, and species lilies whose bloom periods overlap from early through late summer. This 25-bulb assortment of Lilium spp. and hybrids produces an unpredictable mix of colors and flower forms on slender stems that can reach 4 to 5 feet tall. Early Asiatic types begin the display, followed by trumpet and tiger lilies, while later Oriental types extend flowering toward the end of summer. The bulbs are perennial in USDA zones 3-8 and can gradually form larger clumps when growing conditions suit them. Many Oriental and trumpet lilies contribute fragrance, while the assorted flower forms range from upward-facing cups to trumpets and recurved blooms. Their narrow 9- to 12-inch stems work well behind shorter perennials, between established shrubs, or along the rear of a sunny cutting bed. They also grow well in substantial patio pots, though deer and rabbits readily browse lilies and protection may be needed where either is common.Lily Mix Bulbs CarePlant Lily Mix Bulbs in spring as soon as the soil is workable, or plant in fall at least several weeks before the ground freezes so roots have time to establish. Choose full sun to partial shade and give the plants a site with good air circulation around the stems. Lilies perform best in fertile, well-drained loam with a slightly acidic to neutral soil pH of about 6.0 to 7.0. Work compost into dense soil before planting.Set the bulbs about 6 to 8 inches deep with the pointed end facing upward, then water thoroughly to settle soil around the roots. During active growth and flowering, provide roughly 1 inch of water per week when rainfall is insufficient, preferably directing water toward the soil rather than wetting the leaves. Apply a balanced granular fertilizer as shoots emerge and make a second light application as flower buds begin to form, following label rates. Once foliage begins yellowing in fall, reduce watering and allow the bulbs to enter dormancy naturally.Remove faded flowers but leave the leafy stems standing so they can continue supplying energy to the bulbs. Cut stems to the ground only after they have completely browned in fall. Crowded clumps can be lifted and divided in fall every three to four years. True lilies are highly toxic to cats and can also cause illness in dogs, so bulbs and plants should be kept away from pets that may chew or dig.Lily Mix Bulbs SpacingSpace individual bulbs 9 to 12 inches apart in beds, or arrange them in groups of three to five for concentrated pockets of summer flowers. For container growing, use a pot at least 12 to 14 inches deep with drainage holes and enough width to keep several bulbs appropriately spaced. Containers in zones 3-5 benefit from winter shelter in an unheated garage or similar protected location.Lily Mix Bulbs Companion PlantsCatmint makes a good landscape partner because its lower mound covers ground beneath the tall lily stems and shares their preference for sunny, well-drained sites. Salvia adds another layer of early- to midsummer flowering in a mixed border. For large containers, calibrachoa can trail over the rim beneath upright lily stems, provided the pot drains freely and receives ample sun.