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Harvesting lily bulbs at the right time and preparing them properly for storage is essential for ensuring healthy growth in the next planting season. Proper harvesting can prevent disease and bulb rot, and helps maintain the vitality of your lilies for years to come.
When to Harvest Lily Bulbs
The ideal time to harvest lily bulbs is in late summer or early fall, after the foliage has naturally died back. This period typically occurs about 8 to 10 weeks after the flowers have finished blooming. Waiting until the foliage has yellowed and withered ensures that the bulbs have fully matured and stored nutrients for the dormant period.
If you harvest too early, the bulbs may not be fully developed, which can affect their growth in the following season. Conversely, harvesting too late can increase the risk of rot or disease as the bulbs remain in the ground during wet or cold conditions.
How to Harvest Lily Bulbs
Follow these steps to carefully harvest your lily bulbs:
- Wait until the foliage has yellowed and died back.
- Use a garden fork or spade to gently loosen the soil around the bulbs, being careful not to damage them.
- Lift the bulbs out of the ground with your hands or a garden fork.
- Brush off excess soil, but avoid washing the bulbs with water, as moisture can promote rot.
- Inspect each bulb for signs of disease or damage. Discard any that appear soft, moldy, or rotted.
Preparing Bulbs for Storage
Proper preparation is key to successful storage. Follow these steps:
- Allow the bulbs to cure in a warm, dry, well-ventilated area for about a week.
- Once cured, trim the foliage to about 1-2 inches above the bulb.
- Remove any excess soil and gently brush off dirt.
- If necessary, dust the bulbs with a fungicide to prevent mold or rot during storage.
- Store the bulbs in a cool, dry, and dark place, such as a basement or cellar, at temperatures around 50-60°F (10-15°C).
- Place bulbs in mesh bags, paper sacks, or shallow boxes with good air circulation.
Tips for Successful Storage
To ensure your lily bulbs remain healthy during storage, keep the following tips in mind:
- Avoid storing bulbs in plastic bags, which can trap moisture and promote mold.
- Check stored bulbs periodically for signs of mold or rot and remove affected bulbs immediately.
- Label your storage containers with the variety and date of harvest for easy identification.
- Plan to replant bulbs in early spring, once the danger of frost has passed.
By harvesting your lily bulbs at the right time and preparing them properly, you can enjoy vibrant lilies year after year. Proper storage ensures their health and vigor, leading to beautiful blooms in the seasons to come.