A brief introduction
Native to the northern hemisphere, Lilies are In Greek mythology, known to have come from the queen of the god's Heras milk, the same milk that created our galaxy and stars. There around 100 species and all of them with their own beauty and characteristics is a favorite among many people. It is also associated with royalty and is a frequently used emblem in the form of a blue shield with yellow "spears" representing the flower lily.
Popular varieties
Asiatic Lilies, Known for their bright, bold colors and no fragrance, are among the easiest to grow, perfect for beginners.
Trumpet Lilies, Named for their trumpet-shaped flowers, are known for their strong fragrance and tall stems, making them excellent for cut flower arrangements.
"The modest Rose puts forth a thorn, The humble sheep, a threatening horn.
While the Lily white, shall in Love delight, Nor a thorn nor a threat stain her beauty bright." - William Blake
~ The Symbolic Meaning of Lilies ~
Devotion, Purity of heart, Humility, Magnificence, religious divinity, many years of love and good luck
Plant care
Soil
Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged, Lilies thrive in well draining soil to support thier bulbs and produce good blooms. A loamy
soil mix, which balances sand, silt, and clay, is ideal. This type of soil
provides the perfect combination of moisture retention and drainage for lilies.
They prefer
soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH, ideally between 6.0 and 6.5.
Watering
Water lilies regularly, especially during dry periods, but avoid overhead watering to prevent fungal diseases. Water around 1-2 times a week and let it dry out between waterings. You can feed it with a fertilizer in early spring and again just before blooming. Lilies ´thrives in 40% - 60 % humidity.
Light
Lilies can be in full sun, but they thrive in a little shade. Ensure they get at least 6 hours of sunlight each day for optimal blooming. Lilies Prefer both direct sunlight and half-shadow. Ideal temperature: 15-25°C , but can tolerate up to 34°C.
Care
void high-nitrogen fertilizers, which can promote excessive foliage at the expense of flowers. Some taller lily varieties may require staking to support and prevent them from falling over.
Good for pollinators: No
Toxic to pets: Yes
Fragrant: Yes
Care difficulty: Normal
Planting Season: Fall - Early Spring
Blooming Season: Summer - Early Fall
Hardiness Zone
Did you know?
Lilies, with their different meanings based on their color and variety, are different from culture to culture For example, in China, lilies are a traditional gift at weddings as they are a symbol of many years of love. They can also be given to a mother at the birth of a child as they also stand for good luck. In the Western world, it is known for purity and is often used at funerals. Lilies, with its broad symbolism, can thus represent both the beginning and the end of life.