Propagation Seed Lilies take two to four years to flower from seed, although some species can take up to seven years.
Scatter seed on surface of a pot or tray and lightly cover with soil, water regularly, and watch for damping off after germination.
Scales Remove some outer scales on a parent bulb and, washing with fungicide if desired, keep in a damp bag of perlite , vermiclute or sharp sand at about 20oC. After three to five weeks small bulbs will form, and then, once roots have formed, pot up. After two to four years the new plants should flower.
Offsets and Bulbils Offsets from the parent bulb should be removed and potted up separately.
Bulbils, the little black bead like growths on some lily stems, can be collected and potted in a friable mix.
Pests and Diseases Viruses can cause distorted leaves and flowers. There is no remedy and infected plants should be destroyed.
Greenfly can be a problem and slugs can devour newly emerging shoots. Control by organic or chemical means.
Botrytis usually shows as dark blotches on foliage. Botrytis is encouraged by the use of fresh manure' in the planting mix, a heavy, poorly drained soil and a lack of 'movement of air' about the plants. It can be controlled by regular applications of fungicide during the growing season.
Rotting is a common cause of failure, grit in the base of the planting hole will improve drainage.
L. 'White Fox', longiflorum hybrid
Where to Buy Most plant nurseries and garden centres stock lilies in winter. They may also order a special variety for you. Specialist growers are sources of plants. Lilies in Bloom RD 2, Takaka, Golden Bay ;Tel +64 (3) 525 8353; Fax +64 (3) 525 8353 has an impressive range of varieties.
