The tiger lily is a popular flower amongst gardeners and the non-botanical crowd. The tiger lily is an exotic, tropical-looking flower with a thick, tubular shape. Wild tiger lilies are not hard to come by, and you can see them growing throughout North America. Tiger lilies will often bloom through the warm summer months and have blossoms reminiscent of fire and lightning with their bold shapes and intense colors. it is a stunning deer restaurant perennial.
The tiger lily grows from bulbs, usually around 15 centimeters (6 inches) in diameter. Each bulb produces up to six leaves during its growth cycle. The leaves are long and strap-like, growing up to 60 centimeters (2 feet) long and 5 centimeters (2 inches) wide. These leaves have parallel veins running down them, giving them their striped appearance.
The flowers on the Tiger Lily come in two different forms: those with curled petals and those with straight petals. Both types of the flower have orange-yellow centers with red stripes running vertically down them; however, some flowers have no stripes at all while others may be solid orange or yellow instead of having any red markings at all.
Tiger lilies are among the easiest bulbs to grow from seed but take a while to produce blooms. To get the most out of your tiger lily seeds, plant them in pots or flats and grow them indoors. When transplanting them into their permanent location outside, harden off the plants before setting them in the ground.
Plant the seeds 1/2 inch deep in early spring or fall. Germination should occur within two weeks at 65 degrees F (18 C). Once theyve germinated and begun growing, keep the soil moist but not soggy until theyve reached 3 inches tall and developed their first true leaves. The seedlings should be ready for transplant by midsummer if you start them indoors in early spring.
The tiger lily is a species of lily in the genus Lilium. It is native to North America. It grows best in USDA Hardiness Zones 6, 7 and 8 and can be grown annually in other parts of the country. It is also native to Mexico, Guatemala and Honduras.
Tiger lilies can be grown indoors or outdoors but need full sunlight to thrive. The plants grow from bulbs, which can be planted directly into the ground or potted for indoor use.
Tiger lilies need at least six hours of direct sunlight every day. The more sunlight they receive, the more flowers they will produce. If you live in an area with only four hours of direct sunlight each day, plant them in partial shade so they get enough light without overheating during the hottest part of the summer months (July through September).
Tiger lilies require frequent watering during their growing season and should never be allowed to dry out completely. If you notice the leaves yellowing, then it is likely that your plant needs more water than it is receiving.
The best time for watering is early morning or evening so that the plants do not get too hot from direct sunlight while they are still wet from watering. You should also avoid watering your plants if it is windy outside, as this may cause excess moisture loss from the plant leaves.
During hot periods, especially in an area with high temperatures, try to water your plants less often so they do not become overly stressed by the heat and dry conditions. If your area has a lot of rain throughout the year, you will only need to water every two weeks or so during the growing season when it becomes warmer outside and your plant begins putting on new growths of leaves.
Tiger lilies prefer moist soil that drains well but doesnt have standing water in the planting area for long periods. Avoid soggy conditions at all costs because they will lead to root rot problems for your plant. If your area is humid or near a body of water, ensure you give your plants plenty of drainage space so they dont sit in water during heavy rains or after watering them. Tiger lily bulbs prefer slightly acidic soils with a pH between 5 and 7 (slightly acidic) or neutral (pH 7). A pH below 5 indicates acidic soil, while a pH above 7 indicates basic soil (alkaline).
Tiger lilies do not require much fertilizer, but they will benefit from applying compost before planting and once a year after blooming. If you grow your tiger lilies in containers, use a fertilizer with equal amounts of, phosphorous (P), nitrogen (N) and potassium (K). Use one tablespoon per gallon of water when watering your lilies.
Tiger lilies are one of the most popular lilies grown in home gardens. Their brightly colored blooms on tall stems create beautiful accents in flower beds and borders Tiger lilies also readily self-propagate, creating dense clumps that produce more and more flowers each year. But eventually, these clumps become overcrowded and bloom production declines The solution is to transplant and divide the bulbs. With some simple steps, you can propagate your tiger lilies to create additional plants and stimulate vigorous growth and flowering.
When to Transplant Tiger Lilies
Tiger lilies bloom in mid to late summer. The best time to transplant them is after the foliage dies back in fall. This allows the bulbs to establish roots before sending up new growth in spring. Attempting to transplant tiger lilies while actively growing risks damage to the fragile root system and flower buds. It’s best to mark where the bulbs are planted while the foliage is still visible. Once it disappears, the bulbs are difficult to find.
Fall transplanting allows 6-8 weeks for root growth before the ground freezes. Root establishment increases transplant success compared to spring planting. Transplanting in fall also avoids disrupting emerging spring growth. However, spring transplanting can work if done as early as possible. Just be gentle with the tender new shoots.
How to Transplant an Overgrown Tiger Lily Clump
Follow these simple steps for transplanting and dividing overgrown tiger lily clumps
Gather Supplies
- Shovel and garden fork for digging bulbs
- Hand trowel for dividing bulbs
- Sharp knife to separate bulbs and roots
- Container to hold bulbs during division
- Bone meal fertilizer to stimulate root growth
- Organic compost to improve soil conditions
Prepare New Planting Site
- Select a site with full sun to part shade exposure. Morning sun is ideal.
- Prepare soil by mixing in 2-3 inches of compost to a depth of 10-12 inches.
- Work 1/2 cup bone meal into the top 6 inches of soil per square foot of area.
- Space new planting holes 12-18 inches apart to allow room for growth.
Dig and Divide Bulbs
- Water clump thoroughly 1-2 days before digging to make removal easier.
- Use shovel to dig around clump about 6 inches away from outermost stems.
- Lift out entire clump and shake off excess soil. Keep bulbs out of direct sun.
- Gently separate bulbs and roots using hands or knife. Discard any damaged bulbs.
- Break bulbs into groups with 3-5 nose buds to maximize blooms.
Replant Divided Bulbs
- Place each bulb group in hole with nose buds facing up and roots down.
- Backfill holes with surrounding soil and pack gently but firmly around bulbs.
- Water thoroughly after planting to eliminate air pockets and settle soil.
- Cover beds with 2-3 inches of mulch to conserve moisture and suppress weeds.
Provide Follow Up Care
- Water beds weekly if rainfall is less than 1 inch to keep soil moist but not soggy.
- Apply balanced fertilizer in early spring when new growth emerges.
- Remove spent flower stems after blooming to conserve energy in the bulbs.
- Watch for slugs, snails and other pests and control as needed.
- Divide again every 3-5 years to maintain plant vigor and flowering.
Following proper transplanting techniques revitalizes overgrown tiger lily clumps. Dividing the bulbs propagates additional plants and reduces competition so more food energy goes into flowering instead of bulb growth. With proper follow up care, your transplanted tiger lilies will reward you with bigger and better blooms!
How to Transplant Tiger Lily Plants
Its not actually the plants you will transplant unless you opt to lose some flowers and move them during the growing season. If you wait until fall, all that is left to move are the bulbs. To remove the bulbs, use a shovel and cut straight down several inches (8 cm.) away from where the plants were. Dig as far out from the main clump of the plant, or plants, as needed to avoid cutting the bulbs. Then, carefully excavate inward until you find the bulbs. Lift the bulbs gently and brush off the soil. If the bulbs are in a big clump, delicately separate them. If any plant material remains on the bulbs, clip it off. After you have lifted and separated the bulbs, check for rotten spots and discoloration. Discard any bulbs which arent healthy. Prepare the bed by loosening the soil to a depth of 8 inches (20 cm.) and adding in organic matter and bone meal. Plant the bulbs 6 to 10 inches (15-25 cm.) apart at a depth of 6 inches (15 cm.). Bulbs need to be situated with the pointed side up and the roots downward. Press soil around the bulbs and water to settle the soil. If you have snoopy squirrels or other digging animals, place a section of chicken wire over the area until plants sprout in spring. Transplanting tiger lily bulbs is easy and the results will be bigger flowers and more than ever before.
Pests and Disease Problems
Tiger lilies are susceptible to aphids, slugs and snails. Aphids feed on the sap of plants by inserting their mouthparts into them. They can also spread viral diseases that affect the plants foliage. Snails and slugs eat holes in your tiger lily leaves, which can cause them to wilt or die.
The most common diseases occur on the roots, leaves and stems. It causes spots on the leaves and yellows them. The fungus can also cause brown spots on the petals of some varieties of a tiger lilies. The most common disease is leaf scorch, which causes brown areas on the leaves. This condition occurs when the plant is not watered enough and has too much sun exposure. It can also be caused by over-fertilizing or under-watering. Leaf scorch will cause yellowing or browning of some areas of the leaf, but it will not kill off your plant completely if you correct these conditions quickly enough.
When To Plant It
Tiger lily bulbs should be planted anytime between fall and spring, as long as the ground isnt frozen or waterlogged. The best time to plant your bulbs is early spring before the last frost date, usually about mid-April in most regions. However, if you want to start growing your plants indoors for spring planting on your patio, its best to start them around May 1st or sooner.
Transplanting tigerlilies
FAQ
Do tiger lilies transplant well?
Transplanting tiger lily bulbs is easy and the results will be bigger flowers and more than ever before. 7 Summer-Blooming Bulbs To Plant In Early Spring: Don’t Miss Months Of Glorious Flowers!
Can you dig up lilies and move them?
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Gardening Know Howhttps://www.gardeningknowhow.comHow And When To Transplant Lilies, According To ExpertsJan 16, 2025 — Dig down at least 12 inches (30 cm) deep and several inches around each lily plant to ensure you don’t damage any bulbs with your shovel or spade. O…
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GardenSmarthttps://www.gardensmart.tvARTICLES :: When and How to Transplant Lilies – GardenSmartLilies produce from bulbs and need to be divided and transplanted in the fall for the best results. Experts say late September or early October is when to move …
Do tiger lilies like sun or shade?
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Optimal Light:Tiger lilies are sun-loving plants and benefit from at least 6 hours of direct sunlight.
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Tolerance for Shade:They can tolerate partial shade, particularly in the afternoon, according to The Spruce.
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Potential Issues with Too Much Shade:Excessive shade can lead to weak stems, reduced blooming, and overall poor plant health.
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Strategic Placement:Consider planting tiger lilies where they receive morning sun and some afternoon shade, according to Greg App. Taller plants can also provide some shade without completely blocking the sun, according to Greg App.
Can I transplant lilies in summer?
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Visual aid:You can see the flowers and their full size, making it easier to arrange them in your garden and avoid placing tall varieties in the front.
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Established growth:Lilies that are transplanted in summer are more likely to become established and bloom well the following spring to early summer, according to a post on Quora.
How do I transplant Tiger Lilies?
To transplant tiger lilies, follow these steps: Choose the new location: Select a new spot in your garden that receives ample sunlight and has well-drained soil. Tiger lilies thrive in full sun or partial shade, and they prefer soil that is rich in organic matter.
When can Tiger Lilies be transplanted?
While fall is really best, tiger lilies can be transplanted in spring after the threat of hard frosts have passed. Allow sufficient time for good root establishment before summer heat arrives. How long should I wait to transplant newly purchased lily bulbs?
How do you propagate Tiger Lilies?
New tiger lilies can be propagated by divisions or by planting the dark brown bulbils that erupt along the stem, nestled between the leaves of this plant. Treat them just like regular bulbs, but allow them an additional year to bloom. Plant tiger lilies away from other lilies, as well as plants susceptible to tomato spotted wilt virus.
How do you plant a Tiger Lily?
If you have snoopy squirrels or other digging animals, place a section of chicken wire over the area until plants sprout in spring. Transplanting tiger lily bulbs is easy and the results will be bigger flowers and more than ever before. How do you care for Tiger Lilies? Backfill the holes with soil, gently firming it around the bulbs.
How do you care for Tiger Lilies?
Backfill the holes with soil, gently firming it around the bulbs. Water thoroughly: After planting, thoroughly water the newly planted tiger lilies to settle the soil and hydrate the bulbs. Provide enough water to thoroughly moisten the soil, but avoid overwatering, as excessive moisture can cause the bulbs to rot.
How do you remove Tiger Lilies from the ground?
Use a garden fork or shovel to carefully lift the clump of tiger lilies from the ground. Dig around the plants, keeping a proper distance from the base to avoid harming the bulbs. Dividing the bulbs: Once the clump of tiger lilies is out of the ground, gently shake off any excess soil to reveal the individual bulbs.