HINTS ABOUT CULTIVATION

Evening Post, Volume CXXIII, Issue 130, 3 June 1937, Page 26

HINTS ABOUT CULTIVATION

Lilies require deeply-worked and well-drained soil. They like plenty of humus, especially leaf mould, but the bulbs must not-come in direct contact with manure. Consequently 'if the soil requires enriching work the manure into the lower spit so that the roots may work down to it as the plants require nourishment. Most lilies are stem-rooting, that is they produce roots ' from the stem above the bulb, hence the need for deep planting. Large bulbs should oe placed with the top of the bulb lOin below the surface, smaller ones can do with a little less. When: planting it is a good plan to surround the bulbs with coarse sand. Lily bulbs should never be dried off and the roots should also be carefully treated. If a clump has to be lifted and divided they should be got back into the ground with as little delay as possible. If they are doing well, and producing good, spikes of bloom lilies should not be disturbed, they can remain in the same position for many years without deterioration provided the soil and position suit them. The addition of some good fresh, loamy soil each year after flowering will help to keep them vigorous. A little bone dust may also be given. ,