Plant lily bulbs in your garden and you'll be rewarded with beautiful, vibrant flowers in a range of hues. However, you need to know how and when to plant lily bulbs because not all types of lilies are planted at the same time of year. Plus, the bulbs don't go dormant like tulip or daffodil bulbs so they will deteriorate if left unplanted for long periods of time. It's best to wait and purchase the bulbs when you're ready to plant them. Here's what you need to know about planting lily bulbs to ensure they thrive for many years in your garden.

When to Plant Lily Bulbs

There are many types of true lilies (Lilium spp.), and all grow from a large bulb. Different lily species flower at different times. Knowing the bloom time of the lily you want to grow is essential to ensuring the bulbs are planted at the right time. Lilies that bloom early in the season are best planted in the fall. If the lily blooms later in the growing season, such as in the summer or fall, plant the bulbs in the spring.

Planting Lilies in Fall

Some types, such as Asiatic lilies, bloom in early summer so should be planted in fall about a month before the first frost date. This gives lily bulbs a chance to establish the roots that stabilize them during their growing period. Plus, bulbs planted in the fall experience a winter chill, resulting in bigger blooms. Lilies that bloom early in the season are best planted in the fall.

Planting Lilies in Early Spring

Some lily varieties such as the trumpet lily and Oriental hybrids, bloom in the mid-to-late summer so they can be planted in spring. Plant the bulbs as soon as the last frost occurs in spring and when the ground isn't muddy or wet. They may not bloom that same year, but should definitely bloom the following summer once they've had a chance to get well established.

Planting Lily Bulbs in Pots

Short on sunny space in your garden or only have a balcony or porch to plant bulbs? Try growing lilies in containers. Before planting, ensure the pot has drainage holes to prevent soggy soil and root rot. Lily bulbs can be planted in pots anytime.

Bulbs need plenty of space to grow, so when planting multiple bulbs in one container, you typically want three bulbs or fewer for a 12-inch pot. Plant bulbs with the pointed side facing upward about 4-6 inches into the soil.

Tips for Planting Lily Bulbs

Lilies bloom year after year as long as they are planted in the right growing conditions.

Lighting

Lilies thrive in the sun, so find a space in your garden that receives several hours of sunlight per day. Some lilies do better with morning sunlight and afternoon shade, especially in areas with intense heat. 

Soil Preparation

Lilies thrive in well-draining soil with plenty of organic matter.  Some bulbs do best in acidic soil, while others may grow well in alkaline soils or tolerate lime. Lilies do best when the soil is amended with compost or decomposed manure. Soil retains more moisture when amended, meaning you need to water less often. 

Spacing

Give lily bulbs plenty of space to grow. A good rule of thumb is to space them approximately three times the diameter of the bulb. For example, 6-inch bulbs should be spaced 18 inches apart. You also need to consider how deep to plant a bulb, which is typically around 4-6 inches under the soil with the pointed part of the bulb facing upward. 

Watering

Give bulbs a good soak after they are planted. Lilies need regular watering—about 1 inch of water weekly—during their growing season. After the lilies bloom, they need less water. Make sure the soil isn't soggy or too wet because lilies are susceptible to root rot.