How to Save Lily Bulbs

Lily bulbs tolerate only short-term storage.

Most lily varieties, such as oriental lilies, grow from a hardy bulb structure. The bulb stores food and energy every summer that is then used for the following year's flowering. Most lilies are hardy plants that survive winter temperatures once established, but newly planted bulbs can be damaged by freezing weather. Store bulbs until most spring frost danger is past, then plant them in warm ground where they can quickly send forth roots. Lilies do not tolerate long storage, but two to three months won't harm them.

Things You'll Need

• Powdered sulfur
• Peat moss
• Mesh sacks

Instructions

1. Inspect each bulb for signs of disease. Look for soft or discolored spots. Dispose of any diseased bulbs.

2. Dust each bulb with powdered sulfur, available from garden centers. The sulfur prevents fungus and some insects from infesting the bulbs during storage.

3. Moisten the peat moss until it is barely damp. Pack the peat moss around the lily bulbs.

4. Place the lily bulbs into a mesh sack. Hang them in a cool, dry and dark room until you are ready to plant them.

Tips & Warnings

• Lily bulbs do not go completely dormant, so they must be provided with a minimal amount of moisture during storage. Remoisten the peat moss as necessary.

• Some lily bulbs are toxic. Do not store them where pets or children may find them.

References

• North Dakota State University: Questions on Lilies
• University of Washington Botanic Gardens: Storing Lily Bulbs