How to Deadhead Asiatic Lilies

Asiatic lilies are one of the most popular and easiest lilies to grow. They are hardy and grow throughout the United States. They do not require any staking for support. They grow in nearly any soil as long as the soil drains well. They have large blooms and a sweet aroma. Asiatic lilies can be deadheaded when the blooms fade keeping the plant looking neat and beautiful.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Asiatic lily
• Sharp knife

1. Pull the faded blossom out away from the stem. By removing the blossoms as they fade, the plant does not waste its energy producing seeds. It stores the energy away inside the bulb for next year's blooming season.

2. Slice through the base of the blossom with a sharp clean knife. A sharp knife will minimize any damage to the plant. Keep your tools clean so you do not spread plant diseases and pests in your garden.

3. Discard the faded blossom. Add the blossom to your compost pile so it can break down and be added to the soil for the next year.

4. Do not remove any foliage or stems. As long as the foliage and stems remain green, they are feeding the bulb. This energy will go into producing a larger bulb and flowers next year.

5. Remove the old foliage in the late fall or early spring. Cut the dead stalks down with a sharp knife and add them to the garden compost pile.

Tips & Warnings

• Asiatic lilies come in a range of 2- to 5-feet tall. This makes them a great choice for the middle or back of the flower garden. The shorter varieties make a good container plant.
• Remove the pollen structures and anthers before bringing them inside for cut flowers. Lilies produce a great deal of pollen that can stain clothing.

References

• Extension.UMN.edu: Selecting Lilies for Your Garden
• Extension.IAState.edu: Growing Garden Lilies