Moxie Gardener

Easter Lilies will grow and bloom if planted outdoors.

Easter Lilies, Lilium longiflorum, are native to the islands of southern Japan. Easter Lilies were originally brought to the United States by a World War I soldier who lived in southern Oregon. Prior to this, Japan shipped virtually all Easter Lily bulbs to this country. When the supply was cut off in World War II, farmers in the area around southern Oregon began producing the bulbs. Today, 95% of all bulbs for Easter Lilies are produced in this area.

Lilies are prominent in religious and mythological writings. It is said they sprang up and grew in the Garden of Gethsemane wherever Christ’s sweat fell to the ground. Ancient mythology tells us that lilies sprang from the milk of Hera, wife of Zeus, King of the Gods.

While potted and growing indoors, remove the yellow anthers from the flowers before the pollen sheds. Cut off wilting flowers promptly. Keep them at temperatures in the low 60s during the day and slightly cooler at night. Avoid excess heat from heating ducts or fireplaces. They will thrive in bright, indirect natural light, but avoid strong, direct sunlight.

Water when surface of soil feels dry to the touch, but don’t over water. Do not allow the plant to sit in water drained from the pot; remove from its decorative foil wrapping to water. After excess water has drained, then replace in foil.

After the flowers fade, plant your Easter Lily outdoors in a sunny location with soil rich in organic matter. Easter Lilies like to have their heads in the sun and their roots in the shade. Plant bulbs 12 to 18 inches apart in a hole deep enough to accommodate its root system. Place bulb so its top is about three inches below the surface of the soil. Once you’ve buried the bulbs, hill up an additional three inches of soil above it. Water well immediately after planting, then mulch well.

Cut stems back to the surface when the foliage has died back. It will begin to grow again soon—you may see another flush of bloom later this summer. If not, expect it to bloom the following June or July.

Easter Lilies are somewhat hardy if mulched well with a generous layer of straw, leaves, pine needles, or other organic matter. Remove mulch in early spring as soon as shoots appear.

Easter Lilies can be the foundation of a work-in-progress all white garden. Every spring, add your Easter Lily. Every summer, enjoy its haunting, sweet fragrance.