How To Grow Tree Lilies

You can grow tree lilies successfully by planting the bulbs deep, providing full sun, and ensuring the soil drains perfectly.
 
These majestic plants aren’t actually trees, but rather towering lily hybrids that can reach six to eight feet tall, making them a stunning focal point in any garden.
 
If you’ve ever wondered how to grow tree lilies and get those massive, fragrant blooms, you’re in the right place.
 
Learning how to grow tree lilies isn’t complicated once you understand their basic needs, from choosing the right spot to overwintering them properly.
 
In this post, we’ll walk through everything you need to know about growing tree lilies, including soil prep, planting depth, watering, feeding, and common pitfalls to avoid.
 
Let’s dig in so you can enjoy these towering beauties in your own backyard.
 

Why Growing Tree Lilies Starts With the Right Bulbs and Site

The secret to growing tree lilies successfully begins before you even put a bulb in the ground, so let’s talk about what makes these plants tick.
 
Tree lilies grow from large, robust bulbs that need plenty of space to develop their thick, sturdy stems.
 
When you choose bulbs for growing tree lilies, look for firm, plump ones with no soft spots or mold, as these will give you the strongest growth.
 
Site selection is equally crucial because tree lilies grow best in locations that receive at least six to eight hours of direct sunlight daily.
 
While they can tolerate some afternoon shade in hotter climates, too much shade will make the stems leggy and weak, so aim for that sunny spot.
 
You also want to pick a place that’s sheltered from strong winds, since those tall stalks can snap easily in a gust.
 
Once you’ve got your bulbs and your site, you’re ready to focus on the soil, which is the real foundation for growing tree lilies.
 

1. Preparing the Perfect Soil for Tree Lilies

Tree lilies grow best in rich, loamy soil that holds moisture without becoming waterlogged, so drainage is your top priority.
 
Before planting, dig the area to about 18 inches deep and mix in plenty of organic matter like compost or well-rotted manure.
 
If you have heavy clay soil, add grit or sharp sand to improve drainage, because tree lilies will rot in soggy conditions.
 
A slightly acidic to neutral pH between 6.0 and 7.0 is ideal, so test your soil and amend it if needed.
 
Remember that tree lilies grow deep roots, so giving them loose, fertile soil from the start pays off with stronger stems and bigger flowers.
 

2. Planting Depth and Spacing for Tree Lilies

When you’re ready to plant, the depth is one of the most important factors for growing tree lilies successfully.
 
Plant the bulbs about six to eight inches deep, measuring from the base of the bulb to the soil surface.
 
This deep planting helps anchor those tall stems and also protects the bulbs from temperature swings.
 
Space each bulb at least 12 to 18 inches apart so they have room to spread and get good air circulation.
 
If you’re planting in containers, make sure the pot is at least 18 inches deep to accommodate the root system.
 
Water thoroughly after planting to settle the soil around the bulbs, and then wait for those first green shoots to emerge.
 

How to Grow Tree Lilies Through the Seasons

Once your tree lilies are in the ground, the real work begins, and it’s all about consistent care through spring and summer.
 
Tree lilies grow rapidly once they start, so they’ll need regular attention to reach their full height and produce those huge blooms.
 
Here’s how to grow tree lilies through the growing season with watering, feeding, and staking tips.
 

1. Watering Tree Lilies the Right Way

Tree lilies grow best with consistent moisture, so water deeply once or twice a week rather than giving them frequent shallow drinks.
 
The goal is to keep the soil evenly moist but not soggy, so check the top inch of soil before watering.
 
During hot, dry spells, you may need to water more often, especially if your tree lilies are growing in containers.
 
Mulching around the base helps retain moisture and keeps the roots cool, which is perfect for growing tree lilies.
 
Avoid overhead watering because wet foliage can lead to fungal diseases like botrytis, so water at the base instead.
 

2. Feeding Tree Lilies for Big Blooms

To grow tree lilies that really wow you, feeding them regularly is non-negotiable, especially since they’re such heavy feeders.
 
Start in early spring with a balanced fertilizer like a 10-10-10 blend to give them a strong start.
 
Then switch to a high-potassium fertilizer every two to three weeks once buds begin to form, as this encourages larger flowers.
 
Stop feeding about a month after flowering finishes so the bulbs can harden off for winter.
 
Liquid seaweed or tomato feed works brilliantly for tree lilies, so don’t be shy about giving them a weekly boost.
 

3. Staking and Supporting Tall Stems

Because tree lilies grow so tall, staking is often necessary to keep them upright, especially in exposed gardens.
 
Insert sturdy bamboo canes or metal stakes at planting time, being careful not to damage the bulbs, and then tie the stems as they lengthen.
 
Use soft garden twine or plant ties to avoid cutting into the stems, and add more ties every foot or so as growth continues.
 
This support is essential for growing tree lilies in windy areas, where a sudden storm could topple them overnight.
 
With proper staking, your tree lilies will stand tall and proud, showing off their magnificent clusters of blooms.
 

Overwintering and Dividing Tree Lilies

After the flowers fade, your job isn’t over, because how you handle the fall and winter affects next year’s growth.
 
Tree lilies grow from bulbs that need a cold period to bloom again, so leaving them in the ground is usually best.
 
However, in very cold regions, you might need to add a thick layer of mulch to protect the bulbs from freezing.
 
Here’s how to grow tree lilies year after year by caring for them through dormancy.
 

1. Cutting Back and Mulching

Once the foliage has yellowed and died back in late autumn, cut the stems down to about six inches above the ground.
 
Leave the foliage in place until then, because the leaves are still photosynthesizing and feeding the bulb for next year.
 
After cutting back, apply a thick layer of mulch, like straw or bark chips, to insulate the soil.
 
This mulch is especially important in zones where the ground freezes hard, as it prevents heaving and damage.
 
In milder climates, a lighter mulch is still helpful for keeping the soil temperature stable.
 

2. Dividing and Transplanting Tree Lilies

Over time, your tree lilies will multiply underground, and they may become crowded, which reduces blooming.
 
Every three to four years, dig up the bulbs in early autumn after the foliage dies back, and carefully separate the smaller offsets.
 
Replant the main bulbs immediately at the same depth, and plant the offsets in a nursery bed to grow on.
 
This division keeps your tree lilies vigorous and ensures you have plenty of new plants for other parts of the garden.
 
Just be sure to handle the bulbs gently, as they can bruise easily and are prone to drying out.
 

So, How Do You Grow Tree Lilies Successfully?

You can grow tree lilies successfully by giving them deep, well-drained soil, full sun, and consistent moisture throughout the season.
 
It’s also important to feed them regularly, stake the tall stems, and protect the bulbs through winter for repeat blooms.
 
Tree lilies grow best when you avoid common mistakes like shallow planting, overwatering, or cutting foliage back too early.
 
With just a little effort, growing tree lilies will reward you with towering spires of fragrant flowers that are the envy of the neighborhood.
 
So go ahead and try your hand at growing tree lilies this season, and you’ll see just how spectacular these giants can be.