OPINION: The hybrid lily, a new and welcomed addition

Also known as the Asiflorum hybrids, Lilium LA hybrids are a cross between Lilium longiflorum and Asiatic hybrids and, besides their very extended vase life, they’re exquisitely suited to being viewed from above, as they love facing upwards, showing off their blooms to their best ability. There’s a colour to suit any scheme – from red and orange, to yellow, violet and pink.

Rather new to the bulb family, they’re very resistant to disease and tolerate a range of climate and soil conditions, making them some of the easiest lilies to grow and display. However, some general Lilium rules should still be taken into account, such as the ‘head in the sun, feet in the shade’ mantra that Lilium growers are prone to chant. In other words, find a spot that offers a cool soil but still receives enough morning sunlight. Also, because Lilium don’t possess a protective outer layer like most other true bulbs, they’re quick to dry out and should, therefore, be planted immediately after purchase, with the soil watered straight away and kept moist all year long.

Plant the bulbs in winter. The bulbs can be left in the ground for five years, yielding beautiful results every new flowering season if the correct routine is maintained. This means feeding the soil with a high potash mix in summer when growth is at its peak. When flowers die and leaves and stems become yellow, these should be cut off so that all energy is directed where it’s most needed – the bulb.
During growth, look out for slugs and snails, and, if Botrytis is spotted (usually in humid conditions), don’t be afraid to spray the plants, including the underside of the leaves.

When you notice that growth is no longer as energetic as previous years, remove the bulbs that have probably become overcrowded due to natural division. Divide them and replant them immediately after enriching the soil once more with compost and treating it with a fungicide and anti-bacterial agent.

Content supplied by Hadeco Bulbs.