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Oriental lilies are prized for their large, fragrant blooms and striking appearance. To ensure they continue to produce abundant flowers year after year, dividing and replanting them is essential. Proper division promotes healthy growth and maximizes blooming potential.
When to Divide Oriental Lilies
The best time to divide Oriental lilies is in early spring or immediately after they finish blooming in late summer. During this period, the plants are actively growing or entering dormancy, making it easier to handle and transplant.
Tools and Materials Needed
- Garden spade or shovel
- Garden fork
- Sharp knife or pruning shears
- Gloves
- New planting containers or prepared garden beds
- Well-draining soil
- Mulch
Steps for Dividing Oriental Lilies
Follow these steps carefully to divide and replant your Oriental lilies for maximum blooms:
1. Prepare the Area
Clear the area around the lily clump and water the plant thoroughly a day before dividing. This softens the soil and reduces stress on the plant during handling.
2. Dig Up the Plant
Use a garden spade or fork to carefully loosen the soil around the lily clump. Gently lift the entire plant out of the ground, keeping the root system intact.
3. Divide the Clump
Inspect the root mass and locate natural divisions. Use a sharp knife or pruning shears to cut through the root ball, creating smaller sections with at least one healthy growth point and a good root system.
4. Prepare the Divisions for Replanting
Trim any damaged roots and remove old or dead foliage. Allow the divisions to callus for a few hours if needed, especially if you made cuts with a knife.
5. Replant the Divisions
Plant each division in well-draining soil, ensuring the crown is just below the soil surface. Space the divisions adequately to allow growth and air circulation.
Caring for Replanted Lilies
Provide consistent watering, especially during dry spells, and apply mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds. Fertilize with a balanced fertilizer in early spring and after blooming to promote healthy growth.
Maximizing Bloom Production
To encourage maximum blooms, ensure your lilies receive full sun and are planted in nutrient-rich soil. Deadhead spent flowers to redirect energy into bulb development and avoid cutting foliage until it naturally dies back.
Additional Tips for Success
- Divide lilies every 3-4 years to prevent overcrowding.
- Avoid dividing during extreme heat or cold.
- Use clean tools to prevent disease transmission.
- Label divisions to keep track of varieties.
By following these steps, you can enjoy vibrant, abundant Oriental lily blooms season after season. Proper division and replanting are key to maintaining healthy, vigorous plants that brighten your garden.