Proper watering during the active growing season is essential for lilies to survive and thrive. Without enough water, the bulb will become dehydrated and be unable to support new growth. On the other hand, overwatering can lead to stem rot and foliar diseases. Striking a balance between providing enough moisture and avoiding overwatering is key to keeping your lilies healthy and happy. Watering your lilies regularly, about an inch of water a week, will help them grow and flourish. Providing the right amount of water ensures that your lilies have the necessary resources to survive and thrive.
How To Tell If Lilies Need Water
There are a few signs that your lilies may need water. One of the most obvious signs is wilting or drooping leaves. Another sign is dry or yellowing leaves, which can indicate drought stress or a lack of nutrients. Dry tips or dry leaves can also signify that the plant needs water. If the soil is dry or cracked, the plant needs water. Use your finger or a moisture meter to check if the top layer of soil is dry. Do not water if the top inch of soil feels moist.
How Often To Water Lilies
When lilies begin to emerge in spring, it is important to water them regularly to help them put on growth and produce flowers. Watering them every 3 days or when the top inch of soil feels dry is typically sufficient. Water to a depth of about 6-7 inches.
Lilies are sensitive to overly wet soil and can develop stem and bulb rot if the soil does not drain well. Plant lilies in a pot or above-ground planter if your native soil is compact and drains poorly. Wait to water if the superficial layer of soil feels wet.
When it comes to potted lilies, the watering frequency will depend on the size of the pot and the soil conditions. Watering potted lilies every 2 to 3 days or when the top inch of soil feels dry is typically sufficient, but be sure to monitor the plant and adjust the watering frequency as needed.
Best Time To Water Lilies
The best time to water lilies is typically early in the morning or late in the evening when the sun is less intense. Watering at this time allows the plant to absorb the moisture before the heat of the day, which can help prevent evaporation. In the winter, lilies will go dormant and will not require supplementary water. In the summer, lilies may need more frequent watering due to the increased heat and sunlight. Be sure to monitor the soil moisture levels and water accordingly, avoiding saturation. Lilies growing indoors will not need as frequent watering as those growing under direct sunlight outdoors. Watering indoor lilies once a week or when the top inch of soil feels dry is typically sufficient, but monitor the plant and adjust the watering frequency as needed.
How to Water Lilies
Step 1 - Determine the watering frequency
The watering frequency for lilies will depend on factors such as the weather, stage of growth, and the soil conditions. Watering lilies every 2 to 3 days or when the top inch of soil feels dry is typically sufficient, but monitor the plant and adjust the watering frequency as needed.
Step 2 - Water to a depth of about 6 inches
The best time to water lilies is typically early in the morning or late in the evening when the sun is not at its strongest. This allows the plant to absorb the moisture before the heat of the day, which can help prevent evaporation.
Step 3 - Water the soil, not the foliage
Aim for the soil and avoid getting the foliage wet when watering lilies. Wet foliage can increase the risk of fungal diseases, so try to avoid splashing the leaves.
Step 4 - Check for proper drainage
Lilies prefer moist, well-draining soil but do not tolerate standing water. Check that the soil is draining properly and avoid overwatering.
Lily Watering Tips
- Water lilies every 2 to 3 days or when the top inch of soil feels dry, but be sure to monitor the plant and adjust the watering frequency as needed
- The best time to water lilies is early in the morning or late in the evening when the sun is not at its strongest
- Avoid getting the foliage wet when watering, as wet foliage can increase the risk of fungal diseases
- Check for proper drainage and avoid overwatering, as lilies do not tolerate boggy conditions
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Author Chris Link - Published 1-27-2023 |