True Lilies

• There are many plants that have the word "lily" in their name. Some of these, including the daylily and lily-of-the-valley, are not true lilies. True lilies are part of the genus Lilium and are grown from bulbs. They also have stiff stems and narrow leaves. Sometimes, irises, which have similar-shaped flowers, are confused for lilies.
  
  

Types of Lilies

• Of the many types of lilies, Asiatic are the easiest to grow, according to Hanchek. These flowers will grow just about anywhere, in cold or warm weather, and in any type of soil as long as it is well-draining. They are also sturdy little flowers, growing to about 3 feet tall without support. Oriental lilies are fancier than Asiatic lilies--some have ruffled blooms--and are desirable for their sweet fragrance. Asiatic lilies grow in rich, organic and slightly acidic soil. Easter lilies are traditional symbol of Christianity, but they are not cold hardy and are usually grown in containers indoors.
  
  

Growing Conditions

• Lilies vary slightly in their growing needs. While Asiatic lilies can grow just about anywhere, Oriental lilies need slightly acidic soil. All lilies, however, need well-draining soil, as standing water can quickly rot the bulbs. In addition, all lilies can benefit from soil amended with organic mulch or other added nutrients.
  
  Lilies need at least a half day of sunlight in order to bloom properly, and a full day of sunlight is preferred in all but the hottest climates. Some varieties, such as the Martagon hybrids, have been cultivated to bloom even in shady conditions.
  
  

Lily Care

• Mulch lilies in the spring with a thick layer (2 to 3 inches) of organic mulch. This will add nutrients to the soil, stifle weed growth and protect the young plants from a late freeze. Leave the mulch in place until there is no danger of a late frost. As the shoots grow, remove the mulch to reduce the chances of a fungal disease developing. Also in the spring, fertilize the bulbs with a 5-10-10 water-soluble, slow-release fertilizer, or one that is formulated for bulb flowers. As flowers bloom and fade, deadhead them (pinch or cut them off) to encourage the plant to redirect energy back to the bulbs. Leave the stems and foliage alone until they turn yellow and wither to the ground.
  
  

Pests and Diseases

• Rabbits and slugs like to nibble on newly emerging shoots, so if you have a rabbit population, you might want to plant your lilies in raised beds or inside a rabbit fence. Slug bait can keep slugs away. The most common insect problem is aphids, according to Hanchek. Rinse these sucking insects off your lily leaves with a strong stream of water. Take care to keep the leaves of the lilies as dry as possible. Otherwise, fungal diseases may develop, causing unattractive spots to appear on the leaves.