Lily Bulbs for Spring Planting

Lilies will do well if you plant them in spring. Depending on the species you plant, you can have lilies blooming from late spring through to early fall. Spring-planted lilies break down into three main species groups: Oriental lilies, Asiatic lilies and day lilies. Day lilies, unlike Asiatic or Oriental lilies grow from rhizomes, not true lily bulbs. Each species has its attributes, bloom period and distinctive colors, but all add bright color and height in the garden.

Oriental Lilies

Considered the Hollywood goddesses of lily flower bulbs, the Oriental species group includes the stargazer and Casablanca cultivars. Oriental lilies are desirable for their large, luxurious blooms, opulent coloration, rich scent and slim stems. Plant them in rich, very well-drained soil in the spring after the last hard frost has passed and the soil is warm enough to work easily. Oriental lilies will bloom in summer and early fall in warm climates.

Hybrid Day Lilies

Hemerocallis or day lilies can be planted in spring, giving plenty of time to develop and deliver on their regular flowering period in summer and early fall. Day lilies come in a variety of colors, from deep orange and bright yellow to white and rose pink. They produce flowers on tall stems that are suitable for cut flower arrangements. Plant day lily rhizomes in the spring after the soil has thawed and can be worked easily.

Asiatic Lilies

The pink and yellow candy-colored flowers of Asiatic lilies are sought-after for their easy cultivation, multiple flowers, long lasting bloom life and strong upright stems. Plant in full sun in well-drained soil in the spring when the soil is workable. Keep the soil lightly moist. Asiatic lilies will bloom most profusely in the mid- to late-summer and will readily replace cut blooms.