Around since at least
1000 B.C., lily of the valley plants are one of the most fragrant
blooming plants in the spring and early summer throughout the northern
temperate zone. The stems are covered with tiny white, nodding
bell-shaped flowers that have a sweet perfume and medium-bright green
leaves that are lance-shaped, 4 to 8 inches high and 3 to 5 inches wide.
This moisture loving plant forms a spreading mass with red seed pods
remaining after flowering, which makes lily of the valley attractive
after blooming and very carefree. Growing lily of the valley plants
(Convallaria majalis) is easy, as they will remain perennial in USDA
Zones 2-9.
Growing Lily of the Valley
This easy-care plant doesn’t require much to thrive. Preferring partial
shade and a moist soil, growing lily of the valley is easy if you know
how and when to plant. That being said, these plants are adaptable and
will grow very well in dry shade too. Lily of the valley can also be
adapted to full sun or full shade, depending on the amount of moisture
it receives.
When purchasing plants, look for the following cultivars:
Convallaria majalis ‘Albostriata’ – This type has dark leaves with
white to cream longitudinal stripes.
‘Aureomarginata’ – This variety has cream to yellow edged leaves.
Rosea – A pink variety, not as vigorous as the white flowered
species but very pretty.
Convallaria majuscule ‘Greene’ – This North American native is great
for naturalistic ground cover and provides a carpet of beauty between
other native plants.
When to Plant Lily of the Valley
Knowing when to plant lily of the valley will help to ensure its
survival in your garden. Planting lily of the valley should take place
by late fall. Cool winter temperatures are required to allow a proper
dormancy period.
The single underground rhizomes of this plant, which are known as
“pips”, can be divided anytime after flowering. November or December
would be the ideal time for division and planting lily of the valley.
Care should be taken when planting as it is a poisonous plant, so keep
it away from children and pets.
Try planting lily of the valley plants in a naturalistic garden.
Planting lily of the valley in outdoor containers would also be a great
way to control its spread and provide it with the moisture it enjoys.
No matter what method you choose for growing lily of the valley, you
will find that lily of the valley care is easy and worth the rewards.
Read more at Gardening Know How: Growing Lily Of the Valley: When To Plant Lily Of The Valley https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/bulbs/lily-of-the-valley/growing-lily-of-the-valley.htm
Read more at Gardening Know How: Growing Lily Of the Valley: When To Plant Lily Of The Valley https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/bulbs/lily-of-the-valley/growing-lily-of-the-valley.htm
Planted by round garden under tree March 2019