Lily: ‘Crystal Tree Lily Picasso’

Choose a sheltered, sunny position in moist, free draining soil. Plant tree lily bulbs in autumn with the pointed end facing upwards, at a depth of approximately 3 times their height, and 15cm (6″) apart. When growing lilies, make sure that they are planted deep enough as this will protect the bulb during particularly hot periods. Alternatively, try planting lily bulbs in large patio containers in loam based compost such as John Innes No.2. Caution: All parts of lilies are toxic to cats.

Feed and water regularly throughout the growing season. Tree lilies must be kept moist (but not waterlogged) at all times. Deadhead faded blooms at the base of the flower where they join the stem to prevent the development of seed pods. After flowering leave the stems intact until they begin to yellow in autumn. This will help to feed the bulb for the following year. For the same reason it is vital to leave a third of the stem intact when cutting tree lily flowersfor indoor arrangements. A mulch of well rotted manure or garden compost should be applied in autumn.