Generally speaking, lilies only *need* a major prune once a year in the fall. But let’s be real—the rules change completely if you’re looking to bring those stunning blooms indoors!
More Than Just a Garden Beauty
Don’t get me wrong, lilies look incredible out in the flower bed. But there’s something special about a fresh bouquet of homegrown lilies brightening up your living room. When your lilies are in full bloom, it’s hard to resist grabbing your garden shears and heading outside to grab a few stems.
How to Make the Cut
The golden rule for cutting lilies is to always use clean, sharp tools. Dirty blades are a one-way ticket to spreading plant diseases, and we definitely don’t want that. Once you’ve made your cut, make sure to strip off any leaves from the bottom part of the stem. If those leaves sit underwater in your vase, they’ll start to rot and get pretty gross.
Timing is Everything
If you want your bouquet to last, timing is key. You’ll want to cut the stems when the buds are just about to open—they should be showing their color but not quite unfurled yet. This ensures they’ll last as long as possible in the vase. Pro tip: Head out in the early morning to do your cutting. That’s when the stems and petals are most hydrated. Once you’ve made the cut, get them into water as quickly as you can!
Making Your Bouquet Last
With a little TLC, your lilies can stay fresh in a vase for up to two weeks. To keep them happy, change the water every couple of days. A little trick I love is adding a tiny splash of lemon juice or vinegar to the water—it helps keep things fresh and prevents bacteria from moving in.
Buying Lilies
If you don’t have a garden (or just can’t bring yourself to cut your prized backyard blooms), you can always pick some up at the florist or grocery store. You’ll usually find two main types: Asiatic and Oriental lilies. If you’re all about that classic, heady lily fragrance, go for the Orientals. If you prefer something beautiful but scent-free, Asiatic lilies are the way to go!
