Planting Lily of the Valley (Convallaria majalis) is straightforward, primarily involving proper depth, spacing, and light conditions to ensure these fragrant, bell-shaped flowers thrive.
Getting Started: Understanding Lily of the Valley "Pips"
Lily of the Valley grows from small, bulbous roots often referred to as "pips." These pips are the starting point for your new plants and resemble small, pointed knobs. Ensuring they are planted correctly is key to successful establishment and vibrant blooms.
Essential Planting Requirements
When preparing to plant your Lily of the Valley, whether in the ground or in containers, certain conditions are crucial for optimal growth.
| Requirement | Description |
|---|---|
| Pips | Bulbous roots (often sold dormant) |
| Depth | Tops barely poking above the soil surface |
| Spacing | Approximately 4 inches (10 cm) apart |
| Light | Light to moderate shade |
| Soil | Good quality, well-drained soil |
Step-by-Step Planting Guide
Follow these steps for successful Lily of the Valley planting:
1. Choose the Right Location
Lily of the Valley prefers cool, shaded environments.
- For Ground Planting: Select a spot in your garden that receives light to moderate shade. This could be under deciduous trees, along the north side of a building, or in an area that gets dappled sunlight throughout the day.
- For Container Planting: As with ground planting, find a location where your "pips" or bulbous roots will receive light to moderate shade. This helps protect the delicate plants from harsh direct sun, which can scorch their leaves.
2. Prepare the Soil
Good soil is fundamental for healthy growth.
- Soil Type: Lily of the Valley thrives in good quality, well-drained soil. If your garden soil is heavy clay, amend it with compost, peat moss, or other organic matter to improve drainage and fertility.
- Container Soil: For container planting, fill your container with a high-quality potting mix that drains well.
3. Planting the Pips
Proper depth and spacing are critical for root development and spread.
- Depth: Plant your Lily of the Valley with the tops barely poking above the soil surface. This ensures the roots are adequately covered while allowing the plant to emerge easily.
- Spacing: Place individual pips approximately 4 inches (10 cm) apart. While Lily of the Valley is known to spread, this initial spacing gives each plant room to establish without immediate overcrowding.
4. Watering After Planting
After planting, water thoroughly. This helps settle the soil around the pips and provides the initial moisture needed for root development. Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged, especially during dry periods.
Post-Planting Care & Considerations
Lily of the Valley is generally low-maintenance once established, but a few considerations can help ensure their continued health and manage their spreading habit.
- Consistent Moisture: They prefer consistently moist soil, particularly in warmer months.
- Fertilization: A light application of balanced fertilizer in early spring can promote vigorous growth, though it's often not strictly necessary in rich soil.
- Spread and Containment: Be aware that Lily of the Valley can be an aggressive spreader, forming dense groundcover. If you wish to contain its spread, consider planting it in an area with natural barriers (like a sidewalk or foundation) or using a root barrier. For containers, their spread is naturally limited, making them an excellent choice for managing their habit.
By following these guidelines, you can successfully plant and enjoy the delightful fragrance and beauty of Lily of the Valley in your garden or containers.
