Foxtail lilies (also known as *Eremurus*) are absolute showstoppers in any home garden. If you keep a few simple tips in mind, these “Desert Candles” will reward you with stunning, towering flower spikes in no time. Here is everything you need to know about getting your foxtail lilies off to a great start.
Finding the Perfect Spot
Choosing the right location is the first step to success with *Eremurus*.
The Sunnier, the Better
Foxtail lilies are sun-worshippers. They thrive in bright, sunny spots and can even handle intense midday heat without breaking a sweat. However, you’ll want to find a place that offers a bit of protection from the wind. Because those flower spikes grow so tall, they can be a bit fragile and might snap if a heavy gust catches them.
Rich, Well-Draining Soil
To keep your plants happy, your soil should be:
- Loose and well-aerated
- Rich in organic matter and nutrients
If your garden soil is a bit too heavy or clay-like, don’t worry—you can easily fix it by mixing in some sand or compost. While you never want your foxtail lilies to dry out completely, they absolutely hate “wet feet.” To prevent root rot, make sure you have great drainage by adding some gravel or expanded clay to the planting hole.
When to Plant
Timing is everything when it comes to growth and getting those beautiful blooms. If you’re working with bare-root rhizomes, you should always aim to plant them in early fall. This gives the tubers plenty of time to establish a strong root system before the spring wake-up call. Planting in the spring often leads to a disappointing flowering season, so fall is definitely your best bet!
Give Them Some Elbow Room
These plants like their personal space. If you’re planting them as standalone features, give them about 30 inches (80 cm) of clearance from their neighbors. If you’re going for a mass-planting look, aim for about four plants per square yard.
How to Plant Your Foxtail Lilies
Whether you’re starting with bare-root rhizomes or potted plants from the nursery, the process is pretty much the same. Just follow these steps:
- Dig a planting hole about 20 inches (50 cm) deep at your chosen spot.
- Mix the soil you removed with some compost or horn meal to create a nutrient-rich, crumbly mix.
- Create a drainage layer at the bottom of the hole by adding a layer of gravel or sand.
- Place the rhizome in the hole and fill it back up with your soil mix. The crown of the root should sit about 6 inches (15 cm) below the soil surface.
- Give them a good, thorough watering to help settle the soil.
