You can definitely plant an Easter lily outside after it blooms. It is actually a great idea to do so, as it allows the lily to continue growing and thriving in a more natural environment. After all, Easter lilies are often forced to bloom indoors for the holiday season, but they can be enjoyed as outdoor plants for years to come.
Once the Easter lily has finished blooming and there are no more flowers left on the stalk, it is important to remove the stalk. By doing so, you prevent the plant from putting energy into developing seeds. This encourages the lily to focus its energy on producing new growth and building a stronger bulb.
When it comes to planting your Easter lily outside, timing is crucial. It is recommended to wait until all danger of frost has passed before transplanting it. Frost can damage the tender growth of the lily and hinder its ability to establish itself in the new location. Depending on your climate, this could be anywhere from late spring to early summer.
Choose a spot in your garden where the Easter lily will receive full sun. Full sun means at least six or more hours of direct sunlight per day. Sunlight is vital for the lily to thrive and produce healthy foliage and blooms. If you plant the lily in a shaded area, it may not receive enough sunlight to grow properly.
Before planting, prepare the soil by loosening it with a garden fork or tiller. This will help the lily’s roots penetrate the soil easily and establish themselves. You can also add organic matter such as compost or well-rotted manure to improve the soil’s fertility and drainage.
Dig a hole that is deep enough to accommodate the lily bulb and its roots. The hole should be about twice as wide as the bulb. Gently place the bulb in the hole, making sure the roots are spread out and not cramped. Backfill the hole with soil, firming it gently around the bulb to remove any air pockets.
Water the newly planted Easter lily thoroughly to settle the soil and ensure good root-to-soil contact. After that, continue to water the lily regularly, keeping the soil moist but not waterlogged. Overwatering can lead to root rot, so make sure the soil has good drainage.
As the lily grows, you may need to provide support in the form of stakes or cages to prevent it from falling over. Easter lilies can grow quite tall, and their large, showy flowers can sometimes become top-heavy. Supporting the plant will help it stay upright and prevent any damage to the stems or blooms.
In terms of care, it is important to keep in mind that Easter lilies are perennial plants. This means they will come back year after year, provided they are given the proper care. After the lily has finished blooming for the season, allow the foliage to die back naturally. This allows the plant to store energy in the bulb for the next year’s growth.
In colder climates, it may be necessary to mulch the lily in the fall to protect it from freezing temperatures. A layer of organic mulch, such as straw or shredded leaves, can help insulate the bulb and prevent it from being damaged by the cold.
Planting an Easter lily outside after it blooms is a wonderful way to enjoy this beautiful flower year after year. By removing the stalk, choosing a sunny location, and providing proper care, you can ensure that your Easter lily thrives and adds beauty to your garden for seasons to come.
