How to Care for Surprise Lilies: A Complete Guide
Surprise lilies, also known as naked lilies or resurrection lilies, are a unique and beautiful addition to any garden. Their name comes from their fascinating blooming habit: they seemingly erupt from the ground with no warning, gracing us with their elegant blooms before their foliage even emerges. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or just starting out, this guide will equip you with all the knowledge you need to care for these fascinating flowers and ensure a stunning display year after year.
Understanding Surprise Lilies
Before we delve into the specifics of care, it’s helpful to understand a little about what makes surprise lilies so special. These intriguing plants belong to the genus Lycoris and are native to Asia. Their growth cycle is unique: they sprout leaves in the spring, which then wither and disappear by summer. Just when you think they’ve vanished for good, up pop their flower stalks in late summer or early fall, crowned with clusters of trumpet-shaped blooms.
Planting Your Surprise Lilies
The success of your surprise lilies starts with proper planting.
- Timing is Key: The best time to plant surprise lily bulbs is in the fall, after the summer heat has subsided but before the ground freezes.
- Choosing a Location: Select a spot in your garden that receives full sun to partial shade. Good drainage is essential, as these bulbs are susceptible to rot in waterlogged soil.
- Preparing the Soil: Amend your soil with compost or other organic matter to improve drainage and fertility.
- Planting Depth: Plant the bulbs 4-6 inches deep and space them about 6-8 inches apart.
Watering and Feeding
Once planted, your surprise lilies are relatively low-maintenance when it comes to watering and feeding.
- Watering: Water the bulbs well after planting. They prefer moist soil but are drought-tolerant once established. Avoid overwatering, which can lead to bulb rot.
- Fertilizing: Fertilize your surprise lilies in the spring when their leaves emerge. Use a balanced fertilizer and follow the package instructions.
Caring for Surprise Lilies After Bloom
After their dazzling display, it’s time to help your surprise lilies prepare for the next growing season.
- Deadheading: Once the flowers fade, snip off the flower stalks to prevent the plant from expending energy on seed production.
- Leave the Foliage: Although it may be tempting to cut back the foliage after the flowers fade, resist the urge! The leaves gather energy for the following year’s blooms. Allow them to wither and die back naturally.
Dividing Surprise Lilies
Every few years, you can divide your surprise lilies to propagate new plants and maintain their vigor.
- When to Divide: The best time to divide surprise lilies is in the fall, after the foliage has died back.
- Dividing the Bulbs: Carefully dig up the clumps, being sure not to damage the bulbs. Gently separate the bulbs and replant them at the appropriate depth and spacing.
Common Problems and Solutions
While surprise lilies are relatively pest-free, they can occasionally encounter problems:
- Narcissus bulb fly: These pests lay their eggs near the base of the plant. The larvae then burrow into the bulbs, causing damage. Prevent infestations by planting your bulbs deeply and practicing good garden hygiene.
- Slugs and Snails: These pests may nibble on the leaves and flowers. Handpick them off or use diatomaceous earth around the base of the plants as a deterrent.
“My surprise lilies didn’t bloom this year. What happened?”
This is a common concern for gardeners growing surprise lilies. Here are a few possible reasons why your plants may not have bloomed:
- Immature Bulbs: Newly planted bulbs may take a year or two to become established and bloom.
- Insufficient Sunlight: Surprise lilies need at least 4-6 hours of sunlight per day to flower properly.
- Overcrowding: If your clumps become too crowded, they may not have enough energy to bloom. Divide them as needed.
Enjoying Your Surprise Lilies for Years to Come
With their unique life cycle and stunning blooms, surprise lilies are a joy to have in any garden. By following these care tips, you can ensure that your surprise lilies thrive and bring you years of enjoyment.