How to Grow Lilly of the Valley

Lily of the Valley are beautiful plants that are fragrant and pleasant to be around. But because some parts of the plant are toxic, choose your outdoor location of Lily of the Valley wisely. This is especially true for households with small children and pets. As each growing season passes, the root system of the plant will spread and create larger and larger patches of beauty and scent. Take cuttings inside to enjoy the smell and splendor indoors as well.

Things You'll Need

• Soil amendments
• Water

Instructions

1. Add two to four inches of compost to well-drained soil, or to help soil drain more readily. Lilly of the Valley do not like to sit in standing water. Compost materials that can be added include peat moss, ground bark and de-composted manure. The area selected should receive light-to-moderate shade.

2. Soak the roots of the roots of the Lilly of the Valley in warm water for a few hours before planting. Cut one inch off of the ends of the roots to help stimulate root growth and activity and to aid with nutrient absorption.

3. Plant the roots soon after taking them out of the water. The tops of the roots should be left barely above the surface of the soil. Water the roots liberally. Top growth will begin within a week or so.

4. Cut blooms off of the plant for sweet-smelling centerpieces and bouquets. Cutting blooms will not hurt the plant or stunt the growth or blooming process.

Tips & Warnings

• Lily of the Valley can be forced to begin growing indoors before planting outdoors to decrease growing time later. Soaking them in warm water and trimming one inch off of the ends of the roots will stimulate and accelerate the growth process. This can be done inside in early spring a few weeks before planting them outside. Plant them in the ground according to the method in Step 3. Lily of the Valley are hearty and spread quickly. They may take a season to recover if they are forced the year before, but they are fine during that intermediate year. There is no need to pull them out and replace them. When Lily of the Valley is finished blooming, leave the foliage intact so you do not put the plant into shock. Divide the "pips" (roots) of the plants that are already located outside in the spring or fall to encourage more growth and to spread the fragrant blossoms around your yard.

References

• Lily of the Valley Growing Information

Resources

• Growing Lily-of-the-Valley
• Lily-of-the-Valley