Lily blossoms are truly something else—their exotic shapes and that sweet, intoxicating scent are legendary. Usually, when a flower looks and smells that tropical, you’d assume it’s a one-and-done annual here in cooler climates. But here’s the best part: lilies are actually surprisingly hardy!
Naturally Tough and Low-Maintenance
One of the reasons you’ll find lilies growing all across the Northern Hemisphere today is their impressive frost tolerance. It might seem surprising since many varieties trace their roots back to Turkey, but they also hail from the rugged Caucasus Mountains. Because they evolved in those harsh, high-altitude environments, lilies are perfectly comfortable handling chilly winter temperatures.
Protected Underground
The secret to their survival lies beneath the surface. Since lilies are classic bulb plants, they tuck themselves away deep in the soil where they can ride out even the harshest winters without a problem. To help your lilies focus all their energy back into the bulb for the next season, it’s a good idea to clear away the spent, above-ground foliage in late fall. This sets the stage for the bulb to sprout back to life once spring rolls around.
Don’t Rush the Pruning
Patience is key here! You really want to wait until late fall to do any cutting. Lilies spend the end of the season pulling vital nutrients and energy out of their stems and leaves to store in the bulb for winter. Only grab your shears once the foliage has completely withered and turned brown. Pro tip: Make sure your garden scissors or knife are clean and disinfected before you start. This prevents any nasty diseases from hitching a ride into your plants.
Choosing the Right Varieties
While many lilies are tough, remember that some hybrids bred from warmer Mediterranean climates might be a bit more sensitive to the cold. If you want a garden that comes back year after year without the fuss, it’s smart to stick with these tried-and-true hardy varieties when planting:
- Tiger Lily
- Wood Lily (Fire Lily)
- Trumpet Lily
- Leopard Lily (Panther Lily)
- Turk’s Cap Lily
- Regal Lily
