Digging up and replanting tiger lilies can be a simple and rewarding task. As a gardening and landscaping expert, I have had experience with dividing and replanting these beautiful flowers, and I can guide you through the process.
First, it’s important to wait until the plants turn yellow and die down before digging them up. This is because the foliage provides essential nutrients to the bulb, helping it to store energy for future growth. Once the leaves have withered and turned yellow, it indicates that the plant has completed its growth cycle and is ready for division.
When you’re ready to dig up the tiger lilies, start by gently loosening the soil around the plant using a garden fork or shovel. Be careful not to damage the bulbs as you work. Once the soil is loosened, you can carefully lift the entire plant out of the ground.
Now comes the fun part – dividing the bulbs. Tiger lilies have a bulb that looks similar to a head of garlic. You’ll notice that there is a central bulb, which is typically the largest, and smaller bulbs surrounding it. To divide the plant, simply break off the smaller bulbs from the central bulb. You can use your hands or a clean, sharp knife to do this. It’s important to ensure that each smaller bulb has some roots attached to it, as this will help it establish itself when replanted.
Once you have divided the bulbs, you can decide how many new plants you want to create. You can replant the larger central bulb and the smaller bulbs separately, or you can group them together for a fuller display. It’s really up to you and your desired outcome.
When it comes to replanting the bulbs, choose a location that receives full sun or partial shade. Tiger lilies are hardy plants that can tolerate a range of soil types, but they prefer well-draining soil. Prepare the planting area by loosening the soil and adding organic matter such as compost or aged manure to improve fertility.
Dig a hole that is deep enough to accommodate the bulb, making sure to space the bulbs at least 12 inches apart to allow for future growth. Place the bulbs in the hole, with the pointed side facing up, and cover them with soil. Gently firm the soil around the bulbs to remove any air pockets.
After planting, water the bulbs thoroughly to help settle the soil and promote root growth. Throughout the growing season, make sure to provide regular water and keep an eye out for any signs of pests or diseases. Tiger lilies are generally low-maintenance plants, but it’s always a good idea to monitor their health.
By dividing and replanting tiger lilies, you can create new and re-energized plants that will continue to provide beautiful blooms for years to come. It’s a great way to expand your garden and share the joy of these stunning flowers with others. So go ahead and give it a try – you’ll be rewarded with a vibrant and flourishing display of tiger lilies in no time.
