Orieantal Lilies Pink

Apply a 5-7.5cm (2-3in) mulch over the soil after planting, and top it up annually. Lilies growing in the ground may not need watering at all, but check during prolonged dry periods in summer. Those in containers will need regular watering whenever needed in spring and summer.

Feed with a slow or controlled-release feed in spring and apply liquid feeds through the growing season – especially when they’re in flower.

Although most lilies produce stout stems that can tolerate strong winds, it pays to stake those growing taller than 90cm (3ft) wherever wind is a problem.

When the flowers have faded, remove them and developing seed pods. Keep the plants growing strongly after they have finished flowering – a weekly liquid feed is beneficial – so that the bulbs build up plenty of energy for flowering the following year. Don’t remove the flower stems and foliage until they die down in autumn, when they should be cut down to ground level.

Nearly all types are perfectly hardy and can remain in the ground throughout winter.

After several years growing in the same place, lift and divide them and separate out the young bulbils.