What to Do After the Lily Flowering Period
When the last lily in the courtyard droops its flower crown, many gardening enthusiasts often miss the opportunity for the next year's reblooming due to uncertainty about proper care. As a perennial bulbous plant, scientific dormant period management can not only extend the plant's lifespan but also improve the quality of the flowers in the following year. Master these three key steps to ensure your lilies bloom beautifully year after year.
Post-Flowering Pruning
Best Time for Pruning
In the northern regions, it is recommended to complete pruning by mid-October, while in the south, it can be postponed until early November. Start the pruning process when the petals begin to wilt to prevent excessive nutrient consumption that leads to bulb shrinkage.
Scientific Pruning Techniques
Use pruners disinfected with alcohol, and make a 45-degree diagonal cut 20 cm above the ground. Retaining some of the stem promotes photosynthesis and continues to supply nutrients to the bulb. Pay special attention to cutting off diseased and weak branches with brown spots.
Fine Adjustment of Water and Fertilizer
Transition in Watering Pattern
Gradually reduce the frequency of watering after the flowers fade, from twice a week to once every 10 days. Stop watering when the above-ground part is completely withered, maintaining slightly moist soil. During the bulb storage stage in winter, add a small amount of water monthly to prevent bulb dehydration.
Strategy for Nutrient Supply
Apply a slow-release fertilizer high in phosphorus and potassium (N-P-K 5-10-10), once a month for two consecutive months. It can be supplemented with a 0.2% potassium dihydrogen phosphate solution foliar spray to promote bulb plumpness. Avoid using nitrogenous fertilizers to prevent early sprouting.
Overwintering Management of Bulbs
Techniques for Outdoor Storage of Bulbs
In cold northern regions, bulbs need to be lifted and stored, leaving a 3cm stem base when digging. Mix with slightly moist peat and perlite (3:1) and wrap them, then store in a 5°C environment. Regularly check for mold, and immediately cut off any rotting parts and apply wood ash.
Overwintering Plan for Container-Grown Plants
Keep the original pot without watering or fertilizing, and move it to a well-ventilated area without direct sunlight. Rotate the pot 180 degrees monthly to ensure even heating and maintain a low temperature of 3-8°C. Gradually increase lighting 30 days before spring to wake up the bulbs.
Through scientific dormant period management, lily bulbs can store enough nutrients for new growth. When the temperature stabilizes above 15°C in the spring,移植 the bulbs on a sunny morning. Plant them at an appropriate depth (with the top of the bulb 8-10cm below the soil surface) and add bone meal as a base fertilizer, and you will harvest healthier stems and more vibrant flowers than ever before.