How to Plant Triplet Lily Bulbs

The Triplet Lily is a perennial native to the Western U.S, and it's most commonly found in California. This eye-catching plant boasts star-shaped, blue/violet flowers which bloom from May or June for only about three weeks. It is a great plant for growing in dry climates as it can tolerate drought conditions. It can get up to 24 inches tall, and it grows from a corm which is a short vertical underground plant. Triplet Lilies make beautiful border plants. Although the blooms only last a few weeks, the beautiful green/blue foliage last through late fall.

Difficulty:

Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need

• Triplet Lily bulbs or corms Sandy loam soil Liquid all-purpose plant fertilizer Mulch

1. Prepare the ground by tilling and mixing in a sandy loam soil. This should be done in early autumn. Triplet Lilies prefer well-drained soil. These plants are winter hardy in growing zones 5 to 7. In colder areas, it is best to dig up the bulbs in the fall and store in a refrigerator over the winter; bulbs can then be planted in the spring after the last frost.

2. Dig a hole 3 inches deep. Set the bulb in the hole with the pointed end facing up; firm over with soil.

3. Water thoroughly after planting; Water each day so the soil does not dry out. Triplet Lilies can survive in drought conditions, but they do better in hot temperatures if the soil is moistened.

4. Spread a layer of mulch or bark over the bulbs. This keeps the soil cool and holds in moisture. In growing zones 5 to 7, apply a heavy layer of mulch for extra winter protection.

5. Fertilize once a month during the growing season. Use an all basic plant fertilizer. A fertilizer that works for tulips, hyacinths and daffodils works well. Do not fertilize during the winter.

References

• Planting Flower Bulbs
• Gardening Guides

Resources

• Read this Article in Spanish
• Growing Zones for North America