How Deep to Plant Asiatic Lily

Planting a lily bulb properly will yield a beautiful flowering plant.

There are several varieties of Asiatic lilies, available in many colors, including white, yellow, orange, pink, and red. Planting the lily bulbs at the correct depth and in an ideal location will go a long way towards growing healthy, beautiful lilies.

Selection

When selecting an asiatic lily bulb, choose a firm bulb with roots attached.

When To Plant

Late spring (May and early June) and early autumn (late September to mid October) are the ideal times to plant lily bulbs.

Location

Plant lilies in well-drained soil in a location where they will receive full sun. If you live in a drier climate in the West or Southwest, a semishaded location that receives plenty of dappled sunlight is also suitable.

Depth

According to the University of Minnesota Extension, it is best to plant smaller lily bulbs at depths of 2 to 4 inches and larger bulbs at depths of 4 to 6 inches, measuring from the top of the bulb. It is permissible to plant larger bulbs at a depth of up to 8 inches.

Spacing

The University of Minnesota Extension advises that planting identical bulbs in groups of three or four bulbs will achieve the best effect. To avoid overcrowding, plant the bulbs 8 to 12 inches apart and allow a distance of 3 to 5 feet between each group of bulbs.

References

• University of Minnesota Extension: Selecting Lilies for Your Garden