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When to Divide Lily Bulbs?
When to Divide Lily Bulbs?. Lilies self-propagate. In just a couple years, one bulb can become many and a spacious and well-planned garden can become overcrowded and not conducive to thriving lilies. In order to keep your lily garden attractive and the lilies blooming to their fullest potential, then proper care is needed. Caring for lilies is more...
Lilies self-propagate. In just a couple years, one bulb can become many and a spacious and well-planned garden can become overcrowded and not conducive to thriving lilies. In order to keep your lily garden attractive and the lilies blooming to their fullest potential, then proper care is needed. Caring for lilies is more than just watering and pruning, it also entails dividing the bulbs on occasion and knowing when to separate them is important.
Dividing Bulbs
Lily bulbs do not need to be divided every year. Generally, every two to three years is sufficient. If you notice that your garden is overcrowded and the lilies are blooming less than they were in previous years, then it's time to divide your bulbs. They are all using a limited amount of nutrients and water in a limited amount of space and need more room to thrive.
When it's time to divide your bulbs, they are best divided in the fall, just after the foliage has turned yellowish-brown. This way, the plant has had a sufficient amount of time to absorb lots of sunlight and convert it to sugar (plant food) through the process of photosynthesis before you cut off the foliage and dig up the bulbs for division. You can also divide your bulbs during other times of the year--early spring is the second best time of year--however, your bulbs may experience stress, especially if you divide the bulbs in the middle of their growing season. Divide lily bulbs with your hands by pulling off attached bulbs. Do not use a knife. Throw out any bulbs that are rotted or damaged.
After you have dug up your bulbs and divided them, it is essential that you replant them within a few days or store them until you're ready to plant them. Plant lily bulbs about 4 to 8 inches deep with the tips facing up. Space multiple plants 10 to 12 inches apart. Store unplanted bulbs in an open container, paper bag or mesh bag with a couple of handfuls of moist peat moss mixed in to prevent them from drying out. Store in an area that is between 40 and 50 degrees F, such as a garage, refrigerator or attic.
