When it comes to low-maintenance plants, Lily of the Valley is pretty much the gold standard—and that easy-going nature starts the moment you put them in the ground. These little guys are famous for their hardy rhizomes that take root without much fuss. But if you’re wondering when exactly you should get digging, here’s the scoop.
Anytime from Spring to Fall Works
The great thing about Lily of the Valley is that they aren’t too picky about timing. You can technically plant them anytime during their growing season, from early spring all the way through autumn. However, if you want to make life easier for both you and your plants, aim for the shoulder seasons—spring or fall—for the smoothest transition.
Summer Planting Requires Extra Hydration
The most sensitive time for a Lily of the Valley is right after planting while it’s trying to establish itself. During this phase, the rhizomes are prone to drying out. Since spring and fall usually bring cooler temps and more rain, the plants tend to settle in much faster. If you decide to plant (or transplant) during the heat of summer, you’ll need to be much more diligent with the watering can to keep them happy.
Shopping in the Spring
Unless you’re getting divisions from a neighbor’s garden, you’ll likely be buying your plants at a garden center. Even though Lily of the Valley is technically a perennial, most stores stock them in the spring alongside the summer-flowering bulbs. Keep an eye out for them early in the season!
Wait Until Potted Blooms Fade
Did you buy or grow potted Lily of the Valley indoors over the winter? If you’re planning on moving those forced pots into your garden, patience is key. You should always wait until the blooming period is completely over before transplanting them into the ground.
To wrap it up, here’s a quick cheat sheet for planting Lily of the Valley:
- You can plant them anytime from spring through fall.
- For the best results with the least effort, stick to spring or autumn.
- If you’re moving potted plants outdoors, wait until they’ve finished flowering.
