MADONNA LILIES.

Auckland Star, Volume LXI, Issue 57, 8 March 1930, Page 7 (Supplement)

MADONNA LILIES.

The madonna lily (lilium candidum) is one of the old-fashioned flowers that appeal to all. Although it does not possess that stately beauty which characterises some other members of the family, yet its quiet and refined dignity ensures for it a place in the gardens of those who love fragrance and grace. Years ago* in cottage gardens it was a sight not easily forgotten. The tima to plant is February, as soon as the flowering season is past and before new growth is advanced. If not planted till later in the year, as is sometimes the case, the bulbs are severely checked and do not make satisfactory progress afterwards, even if they can be induced to survive. It will be necessary if they are to be replanted on the same site, io introduce some fresh loam, with a little leaf mould and sand. If all the old soil can be removed to a depth of IS inches a satisfacte-y display of bloom can be confiden;ly anticipated. If a fresh site is chosen, see to it, if possible, that there is plenty of sunshine, for although the plants can- be grown in almost any aspect, a sunny one is necessary if they are to give of their best, a? then the growth made is thoroughly ripened. About four inches is the depth to plant, and if grown in clumps, as they often are, allow at least nine inches between the plants.