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Dividing Asiatic and Oriental lilies is a rewarding gardening task that helps maintain plant health and encourages new growth. Proper division ensures your lilies remain vigorous and flowering beautifully year after year. Here are some essential tips to successfully divide these stunning bulbs.
Understanding When to Divide
The best time to divide lily bulbs is in late summer or early fall, after the flowering season has ended. This allows the plants to recover before the dormant winter period. Avoid dividing in spring, as the bulbs are actively growing and may be more vulnerable to damage.
Tools You Will Need
- Sharp garden spade or knife
- Garden gloves
- Sterilizing solution (e.g., rubbing alcohol)
- Clean buckets or trays
- Mulch or compost for replanting
Steps for Dividing Asiatic and Oriental Lilies
1. Prepare the Area: Water the lilies thoroughly a day before dividing to loosen the soil and reduce stress on the bulbs.
2. Dig Carefully: Use a spade or garden fork to gently lift the entire clump of lilies from the ground. Be careful not to damage the bulbs.
3. Clean the Clump: Shake off excess soil and rinse the bulbs with water to clearly see their structure.
4. Separate the Bulbs: Gently pull apart or cut the bulbs, ensuring each division has at least one healthy eye or growth point. Use sterilized tools to prevent disease spread.
5. Inspect and Discard: Remove any damaged, diseased, or weak bulbs. Healthy bulbs should be firm and free of mold or rot.
Special Considerations for Asiatic and Oriental Lilies
While the division process is similar, Asiatic lilies tend to produce more offsets and can be divided more frequently. Oriental lilies, which grow larger and have more fragrant flowers, may require more careful handling to avoid damaging their larger bulbs.
Replanting the Divided Bulbs
Choose a well-drained, fertile location with full sun for replanting. Plant each bulb 4-6 inches deep, with the pointed end facing upward. Space the bulbs about 6-12 inches apart to allow for growth.
Water thoroughly after planting and apply a layer of mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds. Regular watering during the growing season will help the lilies establish quickly.
Additional Tips for Success
- Divide lilies every 3-4 years to prevent overcrowding.
- Label your divisions to keep track of varieties.
- Avoid dividing during extremely hot or cold weather.
- Apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring to promote healthy growth.
With proper timing and careful handling, dividing Asiatic and Oriental lilies can rejuvenate your garden and produce abundant, beautiful blooms for years to come.