Ginger Lily Care

Proper Planting

• Plant small ginger lily rhizomes an inch deep and larger rhizomes 2 inches deep in moist, organic-rich soil with a pH between 5 and 7 after all danger of frost has passed. Make sure the soil drains well since ginger lily rhizomes are prone to rotting if the area where they are grown is too wet. Plant the rhizomes 24 to 36 inches apart. Plant container grown ginger lilies in a pot that is at least 4 inches larger on all sides than the rhizome, but do expect to divide these plants frequently to prevent overcrowding.

Light and Temperature

• Gardeners in cool climates should avoid planting their ginger lily rhizomes outdoors until the ground temperature reaches 50 degrees Fahrenheit. Ginger lilies grow in full sun or partial shade. The exact cultivar determines how much sunlight the plant prefers. Plants started indoors then moved outdoors require acclimation to full sun, as there is a chance of leaf burn. To acclimate the plant, move it into an area in partial shade and gradually expose it to a little more sunlight every day until it is in full sun.

Water and Fertilization

• Feel the top inch or so of the soil the ginger lilies are growing in to determine the moisture content. Soil that feels dry needs water. Regular watering at least once a week during the summer is necessary. Ginger lilies grown in full sun require more water than those grown in partial shade. Water deeply so the soil below the surface receives an adequate amount of moisture, as this is where the roots obtain water. Fertilize on a regular basis using a balanced, time-released fertilizer beginning at the planting stage.

Other Care Requirements

• Gardeners in cold climates must dig the rhizomes up once the foliage is blackened by frost. Simply cut the foliage off, carefully dig the rhizome up and allow it to dry slightly over the next few weeks in a cool, dark, dry place. Once the rhizome feels dry, put it into a paper bag or box, seal it up and store it in that same cool, dry, dark place. It is a good idea to check on the rhizomes at least once a month so any potential problems, such as fungus or rot, can be dealt with immediately.