Tiger Lilies: A Comprehensive Guide to Transplanting and Propagation
Introduction
Tiger lilies are beautiful and easy-to-grow perennial bulbs that add a splash of color to any garden. They are known for their large, showy flowers that bloom in summer. Tiger lilies can be propagated through bulbs, scales, bulbils, or seed, but the quickest and easiest method is through division of established bulbs.
When to Transplant Tiger Lilies
The best time to transplant tiger lily bulbs is when the foliage has died back in autumn. This is because the bulbs are dormant during this time and less likely to be damaged during transplanting.
How to Transplant Tiger Lily Bulbs
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Dig up the bulbs. Use a shovel to cut straight down several inches away from where the plants were. Dig as far out from the main clump of the plant as needed to avoid cutting the bulbs. Then, carefully excavate inward until you find the bulbs.
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Separate the bulbs. If the bulbs are in a big clump, delicately separate them. If any plant material remains on the bulbs, clip it off.
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Check the bulbs. After you have lifted and separated the bulbs, check for rotten spots and discoloration. Discard any bulbs which aren’t healthy.
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Prepare the bed. Prepare the bed by loosening the soil to a depth of 8 inches and adding in organic matter and bone meal.
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Plant the bulbs. Plant the bulbs 6 to 10 inches apart at a depth of 6 inches. Bulbs need to be situated with the pointed side up and the roots downward.
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Water the bulbs. Press soil around the bulbs and water to settle the soil.
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Protect the bulbs. If you have snoopy squirrels or other digging animals, place a section of chicken wire over the area until plants sprout in spring.
How to Transplant Tiger Lily Plants
If you want to transplant live tiger lily plants, you can do so in spring or fall. However, it is important to note that you may sacrifice some flowers if you transplant during the growing season.
To transplant live tiger lily plants, simply dig up the plants and replant them in a new location. Be sure to plant them at the same depth in which they were growing and provide them with adequate water to reestablish.
Propagation
In addition to transplanting, tiger lilies can also be propagated through bulbs, scales, bulbils, or seed.
- Bulbs: Tiger lily bulbs are the easiest way to propagate the plant. Simply dig up the bulbs in autumn and replant them in a new location.
- Scales: Tiger lily scales are small, fleshy leaves that grow on the outside of the bulb. They can be removed from the bulb and planted in a new location.
- Bulbils: Tiger lily bulbils are small, bulb-like structures that grow on the stems of the plant. They can be removed from the stem and planted in a new location.
- Seed: Tiger lilies can also be propagated from seed. However, this method is more difficult and time-consuming than the other methods.
Growing Tips
Tiger lilies are relatively easy to grow. They prefer full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil. They are also drought-tolerant, so they don’t need to be watered frequently.
Fertilize tiger lilies once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer. Deadhead the flowers after they have bloomed to encourage new growth.
Troubleshooting
Tiger lilies are generally pest- and disease-free. However, they can be susceptible to aphids, thrips, and mealybugs. These pests can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Tiger lilies can also be affected by fungal diseases, such as botrytis and rust. These diseases can be controlled with fungicide.
Conclusion
Tiger lilies are a beautiful and easy-to-grow addition to any garden. With proper care, they will thrive for many years to come.
