Learning how to transplant lilies is a simple task that can make a big difference in your garden’s health and beauty. Whether your clumps are overcrowded or you just want to move them to a sunnier spot, this guide will walk you through the process step by step.
Transplanting helps lilies thrive by giving them fresh soil and more room. The best time to do it is in the fall, after the foliage has died back, or in early spring before new growth emerges. With a little care, you can enjoy even more of their stunning blooms next season.
How To Transplant Lilies
This main section covers the core process. Following these steps will ensure your lilies settle into their new home successfully.
When is the Best Time to Transplant Lilies?
Timing is everything for a successful move. The ideal periods are:
- Fall (Preferred): After the leaves have yellowed and died back. This allows the plant to focus energy on root development.
- Early Spring: Just as the new shoots are poking through the soil, but before they get more than a few inches tall.
- Avoid Summer: Never transplant while the lily is in bloom or during hot, dry weather. The stress can be to much for the plant.
Tools and Materials You’ll Need
Gathering your supplies beforehand makes the job smooth. You likely have most of these already:
- A garden fork or spade
- Gardening gloves
- Garden hose or watering can
- Sharp, clean knife or pruners
- Wheelbarrow or bucket
- Compost or well-rotted manure
- Mulch (like straw or shredded bark)
Step-by-Step Transplanting Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the New Planting Site
Don’t dig up your lilies until their new hole is ready. Lilies need well-draining soil to prevent bulb rot.
- Choose a spot with at least 6 hours of sunlight.
- Loosen the soil to a depth of about 12-15 inches.
- Mix in a few inches of compost to enrich the soil.
Step 2: Carefully Dig Up the Lily Clump
Start digging about 6-8 inches away from the base of the plant stems. Use your garden fork to gently loosen the soil in a circle around the clump.
Lift the entire clump out, trying to keep the root ball intact. Shake off excess soil gently so you can see the bulbs and their offsets.
Step 3: Divide the Bulbs (If Needed)
This is the perfect time to multiply your lilies. Carefully pull apart the cluster of bulbs by hand. If they’re stubborn, use your clean knife to separate them.
Look for plump, healthy bulbs. You can discard any that feel soft, mushy, or look diseased. The smaller offsets can be replanted in a nursery bed to grow larger.
Step 4: Plant the Lilies at the Right Depth
This is a crucial step. Planting depth depends on your lily type and bulb size.
- As a general rule, plant the bulb three times as deep as the bulb is tall.
- For most large bulbs, this means a hole 4-6 inches deep.
- Place the bulb in the hole with its roots spread out and the pointed end up.
- Backfill with soil, firming it gently around the bulb.
Step 5: Water and Mulch Thoroughly
Once planted, give them a deep watering to settle the soil and eliminate air pockets. Then, apply a 2-3 inch layer of mulch around the plants.
Mulch helps retain moisture, suppresses weeds, and insulates the bulbs from temperature swings. Keep the soil consistently moist, but not soggy, as they establish.
Aftercare for Transplanted Lilies
Your job isn’t quite done after planting. Proper aftercare ensures a strong recovery.
- Water regularly during the first growing season, especially if rainfall is scarce.
- Stake tall varieties to prevent stems from breaking in the wind.
- Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring as growth appears.
- Remove spent flowers, but let the stem and leaves die back naturally to feed the bulb for next year.
Common Problems and Solutions
Sometimes issues arise. Here’s how to handle them:
Bulbs Not Blooming After Transplant
This is common in the first year. The plant is putting its energy into root establishment. Ensure it gets enough sun and fertilizer, and it should bloom robustly in its second season.
Signs of Rot or Disease
Soggy soil is the usual culprit. Improve drainage in the bed. If a bulb is soft and smells bad, remove and destroy it to prevent spread to healthy bulbs.
Animal Pests
Voles and squirrels sometimes dig up bulbs. Planting in wire cages or using a granular repellent at planting time can deter them effectively.
FAQ Section
Can you transplant lilies in the summer?
It’s not recommended. Transplanting during active growth and bloom puts severe stress on the plant, often leading to failure or a long recovery. Always wait for dormancy.
How often should lilies be divided?
Every 3 to 4 years is a good rule. You’ll know it’s time when the clump becomes crowded, stems seem thinner, and flowering decreases.
How deep to transplant lilies?
Remember the “three times the bulb height” rule. For a 2-inch tall bulb, dig a 6-inch deep hole. Stem-rooting lilies (like many Orientals) appreciate being planted even a bit deeper.
Can I move lilies while they are flowering?
You should avoid it whenever possible. If you absolutely must, cut the flower stalk off first to reduce stress, then dig a very large root ball and water it meticulously after the move. Expect it to skip blooming the following year.
Do lilies need full sun?
Most lilies prefer at least 6 hours of direct sun. However, they appreciate having their roots shaded by other low-growing plants or mulch. In very hot climates, afternoon shade can be beneficial.
Transplanting lilies is a rewarding garden job that ensures years of beautiful flowers. By choosing the right time, handling the bulbs with care, and providing good aftercare, you’ll give your lilies the best chance to flourish. Remember, a little patience in the first season is often rewarded with a spectacular display in the next.