How to Grow Tiger Lilies

Tiger lilies, also known as Lilium Catesbaei or leopard lilies, come in many different varieties and colors. Though you will see yellow and pink flowering lilies, most commonly tiger lilies have orange or deep orange-red flowers with black spots. These are perennial, hardy plants and tend to flower in the mid-late summer, and even into early fall.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Tiger lily roots
• Hand trowel and shovel
• Compost
• Water

1. Determine where to plant the tiger lily roots. An area with full sun and good irrigation will serve as a great location.

2. Dig small holes to plant the lily roots. Plant Tiger lily roots close together, as crowding, is not an issue.

3. Add organic compost to the soil. Organic compost, or manure, fertilizes the soil without the threat of chemicals.

4. Place the roots on top of the compost for maximum exposure to the fertilizing richness.

5. Cover the lilies with soil so that the roots are approximately one or two inches below the surface.

6. Water the planted area immediately following planting and continue to water once a week.

Tips & Warnings

• Crowded tiger lilies make for a beautiful flowerbed, so the closer they are, the prettier the results. These types of lilies do well in a crowded environment.
• Rabbits and deer will feed on tiger lilies. To prevent animals from ruining your lily plants, place small amounts of human hair around the base of the plant or on top of the planted area. Human hair deters most animals from disturbing the plants.
• Much like other types of lilies, you can divide the roots of tiger lilies for transplanting. Do this following blooming in the late fall or before blooming in early spring.