Tiger lilies are a beautiful and easy-to-grow perennial flower that can add a splash of color and elegance to any garden.
These stunning flowers are known for their large, bright orange blooms and distinctive black spots, making them a favorite among gardeners and flower enthusiasts alike.
In this post, we will discuss the benefits of growing tiger lilies and provide tips on how to grow and care for these lovely flowers.
Whether you are a seasoned gardener or just starting out, this post will provide you with all the information you need to successfully grow tiger lilies in your own garden.
What Are Tiger Lily?
Tiger Lily is a flowering plant that belongs to the genus Lilium and the family Liliaceae.
It is a perennial plant that grows from a bulb and produces large, showy flowers with six petals that curl back gracefully, forming a trumpet-shaped bloom.
The flowers are usually orange in color with black spots, although there are varieties with yellow or red blooms as well.
Tiger Lilies are native to Asia and have been cultivated for centuries for their ornamental value.
They are a popular garden plant due to their beauty, ease of cultivation, and the fact that they attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies.
Furthermore, tiger lilies are used in traditional Chinese medicine for various purposes, including the treatment of respiratory problems, fever, and cough.
Preparing to Grow Tiger Lilies
Tiger lilies are relatively easy to grow, but proper preparation is essential for ensuring they thrive.
In this section, we will discuss the ideal growing conditions for tiger lilies, how to prepare the soil, select the right bulbs, and plant them properly.
Ideal Growing Conditions for Tiger Lilies:
Tiger lilies prefer well-drained soil with plenty of organic matter.
They also require a lot of sunlight, at least six hours per day, and prefer temperatures between 60-75 degrees Fahrenheit.
It’s important to note that tiger lilies don’t do well in areas with high humidity or where the soil stays consistently wet.
Preparing the Soil for Tiger Lilies:
To prepare the soil for tiger lilies, start by removing any weeds or debris from the planting area.
If your soil is heavy clay or sandy, it’s a good idea to amend it with organic matter, such as compost or well-rotted manure. This will help improve soil structure and provide the nutrients that tiger lilies need to grow.
Selecting the Right Bulbs:
When selecting tiger lily bulbs, it’s important to choose healthy bulbs that are firm and free of mold or soft spots.
The larger the bulb, the better the chances of a successful growing season. If possible, purchase bulbs from a reputable nursery or garden center.
Planting Tiger Lilies:
The best time to plant tiger lilies is in the fall, around six weeks before the first expected frost.
Plant the bulbs in a hole that’s about three times deeper than the bulb itself and space them around six inches apart. Cover the bulbs with soil and water them thoroughly.
It’s important to note that tiger lilies can also be planted in the spring, but they may not bloom until the following year.
Caring for Tiger Lilies
After planting your tiger lilies, it’s important to provide them with proper care to ensure they grow and bloom to their full potential. In this section, we will discuss how to water and fertilize your tiger lilies, how to prevent diseases and pests, and proper pruning techniques.
Watering Tiger Lilies:
Tiger lilies require consistent moisture but can be sensitive to overwatering. Water your tiger lilies deeply once a week, and more often during periods of drought. It’s important to water the soil directly and avoid getting water on the leaves or flowers, as this can cause damage or promote disease. If you live in a rainy climate, make sure the soil has good drainage to prevent waterlogged soil.
Fertilizing Tiger Lilies:
Tiger lilies benefit from regular fertilization, especially during their growing season in the spring and summer. Use a balanced fertilizer, such as 10-10-10, and apply it every four to six weeks during the growing season. Avoid applying fertilizer too close to the base of the plant, as this can cause damage to the bulbs.
Preventing Diseases and Pests:
Tiger lilies are relatively disease-resistant, but they can be vulnerable to fungal diseases such as botrytis blight or viral diseases like a lily mosaic virus.
To prevent these diseases, make sure to plant your tiger lilies in well-drained soil and avoid overcrowding. You can also apply a fungicide or insecticide as a preventative measure.
Tiger lilies can also be affected by pests such as aphids or spider mites.
If you notice signs of pest infestation, such as yellowing leaves or distorted growth, you can use an insecticidal soap or neem oil spray to control the pests.
Pruning Tiger Lilies:
Pruning is not necessary for tiger lilies but can help promote growth and prevent overgrowth.
After your tiger lilies have finished blooming, remove any dead or dying foliage to prevent the spread of disease. You can also deadhead the spent flowers to promote additional blooms.
In the fall, after the foliage has died back, you can cut the stems down to a ground level to prepare for the next growing season.
Harvesting and Storing Tiger Lily Bulbs
Tiger lilies are perennials, which means that they will grow and bloom year after year.
However, after several years of growth, the bulbs may become overcrowded, leading to a decline in plant health and blooming.
In this section, we will discuss how to harvest and store tiger lily bulbs to ensure their continued growth and health.
Harvesting Tiger Lily Bulbs:
The best time to harvest tiger lily bulbs is in the fall after the foliage has died back.
Start by digging up the bulbs using a garden fork or shovel, being careful not to damage them.
Once you’ve dug up the bulbs, remove any soil or debris and let them dry in a cool, dry place for a few days.
After the bulbs have dried, you can gently remove any dead foliage or stems and store them in a cool, dry place until you’re ready to replant them.
Storing Tiger Lily Bulbs:
To store tiger lily bulbs, place them in a paper bag or mesh bag to allow for air circulation.
You can also wrap them in a newspaper or store them in a cardboard box with air holes punched in the sides.
Store the bulbs in a cool, dry place with good air circulation, such as a basement or garage.
It’s important to check the bulbs periodically during storage to ensure they are not rotting or developing mold. If you notice any signs of decay, remove the affected bulbs immediately to prevent the spread of the disease.
Replanting Tiger Lily Bulbs:
When you’re ready to replant your tiger lily bulbs, make sure to choose a well-drained planting location with plenty of sunlight.
Amend the soil with organic matter if necessary and plant the bulbs at a depth of three times their diameter.
Water the bulbs deeply and regularly, but avoid overwatering.
Conclusion
growing tiger lilies can be a rewarding experience for any gardener.
These beautiful and easy-to-care-for plants can add a pop of color and attract pollinators to your garden.
With all the tips outlined in this short post, you can successfully grow and care for your tiger lilies.
Remember to start by preparing your planting location with well-drained soil and plenty of sunlight.
When planting your tiger lily bulbs, make sure to plant them at the appropriate depth and water them deeply and regularly.
Fertilize your tiger lilies every four to six weeks during the growing season and watch for signs of disease or pests.
Harvesting and storing your tiger lily bulbs in the fall can help ensure their continued growth and health.
Store them in a cool, dry place and replant them in a well-drained location with plenty of sunlight when you’re ready.
With proper care, your tiger lilies will bloom year after year, adding beauty and vitality to your garden.
