Growing lilies in pots

Most lilies grow well in pots, although taller types require support. Among the more suitable species are Lilium auratum, L. formosanum, L. longiflorum and L. speciosum. Short-growing (60cm/2ft) Asiatic hybrids (‘Apollo’ and Cote D’Azur’, for example) and the ‘Pixie’ series (50cm/20in) are also suitable.
Planting density and compost

Plant single large bulbs (10-12cm/4-5in diameter) in 20-23cm (8-9in) pots, and three to four smaller bulbs (5-8cm/2-3in diameter) in 23-25cm (9-10in) pots. Allow 5cm (2in) between bulbs and use only deep pots.
Use John Innes Compost No 3, with the addition of 20% by volume each of horticultural grit and ericaceous compost or leafmould is suitable for most lilies, except lime-haters such as L. auratum and L. speciosum. They are heavy feeders, so add a controlled-release fertiliser when planting.

Time and planting

Ideally plant in early autumn, although bulbs can be planted until spring. Place a 5cm (2in) layer of drainage material, such as crocks or small stones, in the pot base before beginning to fill with compost.

Some lilies root from the base of the bulb, such as the Asiatic hybrids, while others, including L. formosanum, L. lancifolium and L. longiflorum, also produce roots from the stem, just above the bulb; for these you may need a deeper pot. Plant basal-rooting lilies (or those whose habit is unknown) at a depth equal to the height of the bulb. Place stem-rooting lilies at a depth roughly two-and-a-half times the height of the bulb. Allow 5cm between bulbs.

Temperature and watering

Keep pots in a cool but frost-free, airy place with strong light, such as a well-ventilated cold greenhouse or frame. Ensure the compost moist at all times, but not wet. To force plants move to 18-21ºC when shoots appear. When in growth water freely. Lilies are gross feeders, so use a high potassium tomato feed every fortnight during summer. Re-pot in autumn.

Aftercare

As the stems begin to wither repot or transfer bulbs to the garden. In larger containers lilies can be grown on for a second season, but ensure that the top 5cm of compost is replaced with fresh compost.

In southern England many lilies will be fully hardy and can be left outside in larger pots year round. It may, however, be necessary to wrap the pots in winter with bubble polythene in cold areas to protect against frost.