How to Plant Convallaria

Convallaria majalis, better known as lily of the valley, is a herbaceous perennial known for showy, sweet-smelling, bell-shaped white flowers nestled among its long dark green leaves in the spring. Lily of the valley grows only 6 to 12 inches tall, which makes it an excellent choice for ground cover. Convallaria grows from rhizomes, and its planting area requires preparation for new growth to return annually. Lily of the valley grows best in U.S. Department of Agriculture hardiness zones 3 to 8.

Shovel
Compost
Peat
Aged manure
Trowel
Mulch
Fertilizer

Instructions

- 1
  Clear a planting area that has a full to partial shade exposure and moist, fertile soil. Lily of the valley grows well under the canopy of trees or in other shady spots. Morning sun exposure is permissible. Wait until the soil is dry and easily workable at the beginning of spring before clearing and preparing the planting area.
- 2
  Enrich the soil by adding a layer of 2 to 3 inches of organic matter made up of compost, aged manure, leaf mold and peat. Mix this layer into the soil to a depth of 6 inches.
- 3
  Dig holes deep enough to bury the rhizomes at a depth of 3 inches. Space the rhizomes 2 inches apart and then water the area to soak the soil well.
- 4
  Water lily of the valley regularly to maintain moist but not soggy soil throughout the growing season. Add a layer of mulch around the plants.
- 5
  Spread a top dressing (a layer 1 to 2 inches thick) of organic matter around Convallaria majalis in October. Apply a complete fertilizer such as 10-10-10 and water the plants well.

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