Originally, lilies were only found growing wild in Turkey and the Caucasus, but these days, you’ll spot them all across the Northern Hemisphere. They’ve even made themselves right at home on our balconies and in our living rooms!
Choosing the Right Pot
Lilies are pretty “hungry” plants—they pull a lot of nutrients from the soil. Because of this, lilies grown in containers need to be fertilized regularly. Even more importantly, they need plenty of room for their roots and soil. Your pots should be at least 8 inches high and about 6 inches wide. Honestly, though, lilies look way better when planted in groups in larger containers. Just make sure to space them about 4 to 6 inches apart. Also, double-check that your pot has drainage holes at the bottom; lilies hate sitting in soggy soil!
Location and Soil
Finding the right spot for your lilies is just as important as the pot itself. They generally prefer partial shade, as they aren’t the biggest fans of harsh, direct afternoon sun. You’ll also want to keep them sheltered from heavy wind and rain. When it comes to soil, lilies aren’t too picky. Standard high-quality potting soil works great, but they also love rhododendron soil or any well-draining mix that’s rich in organic matter.
Proper Care Tips
To keep your potted lilies happy and thriving, here’s a quick checklist:
- Water them regularly.
- Make sure they never sit in standing water (prevent root rot!).
- Feed them with fertilizer every four weeks.
- Alternatively, use a slow-release fertilizer at the start of the season.
- Deadhead wilted flowers and remove yellowing leaves (unless you’re trying to collect seeds for propagation).
- Give them a good pruning in the fall.
Overwintering and Repotting
Even though most lilies are naturally hardy, their roots are much more vulnerable to frost when they’re in a pot. This means they shouldn’t stay outside all winter. The good news? They don’t need a bright spot during their dormant phase—just somewhere frost-free. A shed or garage works perfectly. One last tip: make sure to repot your lilies in fresh soil every spring. This gives them a fresh boost of nutrients so they can put on a spectacular show for the new season!
