Lilium Longiflorum - Snow Queen - 5 bulbs p-pack

Lilium Longiflorum 'Snow Queen', commonly known as the Easter Lily, is a trumpet-shaped, pure white lily with a strong, sweet fragrance. It is a spring to early summer bloomer, ideal for gardens, pots, and cut flowers.

1. Best Growing Conditions

Climate:

• Thrives in cool to temperate regions with mild summers.

• Well-suited for Western Cape, Eastern Cape, Free State, Gauteng, and parts of KwaZulu-Natal.

• Can tolerate light frost, but needs winter dormancy for best flowering.

Sunlight:

• Prefers full sun to partial shade (6+ hours of sunlight per day).

• Afternoon shade is helpful in very hot areas.

Soil Requirements:

• Well-draining, rich, loamy soil with plenty of organic matter.

• pH: 6.0—7.0 (slightly acidic to neutral).

• Improve clay soils by adding compost and sand for better drainage.

2. Planting Lilium Longiflorum Bulbs

Best Planting Time:

• Autumn (April—May) or early spring (August—September) for spring to early summer flowering (October—December).

Depth & Spacing:

• Plant 15—20 cm deep and 20—30 cm apart.

• Deep planting helps stabilize tall stems and keeps roots cool.

Container Growing:

• Use deep pots (30—40 cm) with well-draining potting mix.

• Ensure good drainage holes to prevent bulb rot.

3. Watering & Care

Watering:

• Water regularly to keep soil moist but not soggy.

• Reduce watering after flowering as plants enter dormancy.

Fertilizing:

• At planting: Apply a slow-release bulb fertilizer (10-10-10 or 5-10-10).

• During growth: Feed every 2 weeks with a balanced liquid fertilizer.

• After flowering: Apply a potassium-rich fertilizer to strengthen bulbs for next season.

Mulching:

• Apply a 5 cm layer of mulch (compost, bark, or straw) to retain moisture and keep roots cool.

4. Flowering & Dormancy

Bloom Time:

• Blooms in spring to early summer (October—December).

• Produces large, trumpet-shaped, fragrant white flowers.

After Flowering Care:

• Deadhead spent flowers to prevent seed production.

• Allow foliage to die back naturally—do not cut it too soon.

• Reduce watering when plants enter winter dormancy.

Lifting & Storing Bulbs (Optional):

• In very wet winter regions, lift bulbs after dormancy and store in a cool, dry place until replanting in autumn.

5. Staking & Support

Support Needed:

• Tall plants (up to 1.2m) may need staking to prevent bending.

• Use bamboo stakes or plant supports early in the season.

6. Pests & Diseases

Common Pests:

• Aphids & thrips — Can be controlled with neem oil or insecticidal soap.

• Lily beetles — Remove by hand or use organic insecticides.

Disease Issues:

• Botrytis (Grey Mold) — Avoid overhead watering and improve air circulation.

• Bulb rot — Ensure well-draining soil and avoid overwatering.

7. Propagation

By Bulbs (Easiest Method):

• Over time, bulbs produce offsets (small bulbs) that can be divided and replanted in autumn.

By Scales (Advanced Method):

• Large bulbs can be scaled (breaking off outer layers) and grown in moist compost.

8. Companion Planting

• Pairs well with Freesias, Gladiolus, Alliums, and Hostas.

• Ideal for cut flower gardens, borders, and containers.

Conclusion

Lilium Longiflorum 'Snow Queen' is a classic, elegant lily that thrives in South African gardens with autumn or early spring planting. With full sun, rich soil, and regular feeding, you'll enjoy a stunning display of fragrant white blooms every spring!