Ask the Master Gardener: Can potted lilies be planted in the garden?
If you received Oriental lilies go ahead and plant them, but just know that they may or may not come back as they are not as hardy as Asiatic lilies.
Written By:
Jennifer Knutson | U of M Extension Master Gardener |
9:00 am, May 15, 2021
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Orange-red pixie lilies. Photo by Jennifer Knutson
Dear Master Gardener: I received a potted lily plant for Mother’s Day. Can I plant it in my garden?
Answer: It depends. If it is an Asiatic lily, you can plant it in your garden after it blooms. Cut off the spent blossoms before planting, leaving as much of the stem and leaves as possible. My son gave me a potted orange-red pixie Asiatic lily for Mother’s Day when he was in high school (17 years ago) and I now have at least 50 orange pixie lilies in various gardens from that one pot. I have also shared a clump with him for his garden — it’s the gift that keeps on giving! If you received Oriental lilies go ahead and plant them, but just know that they may or may not come back as they are not as hardy as Asiatic lilies.