How Can I Overwinter Asiatic Lily Bulbs Lifted This Fall?

Asiatic lilies are among the easiest lilies to grow because they withstand cold temperatures, require no staking and tolerate infertile soil. They bloom profusely from June to July, depending on the variety, and grow 2 to 4 feet high. When buying Asiatic lilies, select varieties that are hardy for your region. Plant them in well-drained soil because they will rot if planted in standing water. Plant them in full sun for the best blooms, and space them 8 to 12 inches apart.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You’ll Need:

• Box
• Perlite, sawdust or vermiculite

1. Shake the soil gently off the bulbs. Examine the bulbs and discard any that look bruised or rotten.

2. Place the bulbs on a shelf in a cool, ventilated area for four or five days to dry out. Do not place them in plastic.

3. Fill a box with perlite, sawdust or vermiculite. Bury the bulbs in the box and store them in a cool, dark location, such as a basement or garage attached to the house. Dust the bulbs off in the spring, after the last frost and replant them for summer blooms.

Tips & Warnings

• Some Asiatic lilies are hardy to USDA plant hardiness zone 3, according to the University of Minnesota, and will survive winters with an insulating layer of mulch. If you prefer not to dig them up in the fall, cover them with 4 to 6 inches of wood chip, compost or shredded leaf mulch. Wait until after the first frost before laying down the mulch so mice and rodents won’t hibernate in it. Remove the mulch in the spring as soon as new shoots emerge.