Lilium Asiatic - Assorted Colours - 8 bulbs p-pack

Lilium Asiatic hybrids are hardy, early-summer flowering lilies known for their bright, non-fragrant blooms in shades of red, orange, yellow, pink, and white. They are easy to grow, making them ideal for gardens, borders, and containers.

1. Best Growing Conditions

Climate:

• Thrives in cool to temperate regions with moderate summers.

• Well-suited for Western Cape, Eastern Cape, Free State, Gauteng, and parts of KwaZulu-Natal.

• Can tolerate light frost but needs winter dormancy to bloom well.

Sunlight:

• Prefers full sun to partial shade (at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day).

• Afternoon shade is helpful in hotter areas.

Soil Requirements:

• Well-draining, rich, loamy soil with plenty of organic matter.

• pH: 6.0—6.8 (slightly acidic to neutral).

• Improve clay soils with compost and coarse sand for better drainage.

2. Planting Lilium Asiatic Bulbs

Best Planting Time:

• Autumn (April—May) or early spring (August—September) for summer flowering (October—January).

Depth & Spacing:

• Plant 10—15 cm deep and 20 cm apart.

• Deep planting supports tall stems and keeps roots cool.

Container Growing:

• Use deep pots (30 cm or more) with well-draining potting mix.

• Ensure good drainage holes to prevent bulb rot.

3. Watering & Care

Watering:

• Water regularly to keep soil moist but not waterlogged.

• Reduce watering after flowering as plants enter dormancy.

Fertilizing:

• At planting: Apply a slow-release bulb fertilizer (10-10-10 or 5-10-10).

• During growth: Feed every 2 weeks with a balanced liquid fertilizer.

• After flowering: Apply a potassium-rich fertilizer to strengthen bulbs for next season.

Mulching:

• Apply a 5 cm layer of organic mulch (compost, bark, or straw) to retain moisture and regulate temperature.

4. Flowering & Dormancy

Bloom Time:

• Flowers in early to mid-summer (October—January).

• Produces bright, upright flowers with no fragrance.

After Flowering Care:

• Deadhead spent flowers to prevent seed production.

• Allow leaves to die back naturally—do not cut them too soon, as they store energy for next season.

• Reduce watering when plants enter winter dormancy.

Lifting & Storing Bulbs (Optional):

• In very wet winter regions, lift bulbs after dormancy and store in a cool, dry place until replanting in autumn.

5. Staking & Support

Support Needed:

• Shorter (40—90 cm) varieties may not need staking.

• Taller (1m+) varieties benefit from bamboo stakes or plant supports.

6. Pests & Diseases

Common Pests:

• Aphids & thrips — Can be controlled with neem oil or insecticidal soap.

• Lily beetles — Remove by hand or use organic insecticides.

Disease Issues:

• Botrytis (Grey Mold) — Avoid overhead watering and improve air circulation.

• Bulb rot — Ensure well-draining soil and avoid overwatering.

7. Propagation

By Bulbs (Easiest Method):

• Over time, bulbs produce offsets (small bulbs) that can be divided and replanted in autumn.

By Scales (Advanced Method):

• Large bulbs can be scaled (breaking off outer layers) and grown in moist compost.

8. Companion Planting

• Pairs well with Freesias, Alliums, Gladiolus, and Hostas.

• Ideal for borders, mixed flower beds, and containers.

Conclusion

Lilium Asiatic hybrids are easy-to-grow, colorful lilies that thrive in South African gardens with autumn or early spring planting. With full sun, rich soil, and regular feeding, you'll enjoy a stunning display of bright, cheerful blooms every summer!