How to Grow Lilies

Incorporate 4 to 6 inches organic matter such as aged manure, peat moss or compost into 12 inch deep soil. Choose a spot in full sun, if possible. However, some lilies, such as "Surprise" lilies, can tolerate partial shade.

Plant lily bulbs with the tips pointed up. Small bulbs should be planted 2 to 4 inches deep and larger bulbs 4 to 6 inches deep. A general rule of thumb is to plant bulbs three times as they are in height. Pack the soil on top of the bulb to remove pockets of air; however, don't pack it down too much.

Space lilies 8 to 12 inches apart. If desired, plant in groups of three or five lilies, spacing the groups 3 to 5 feet apart. This is a common planting pattern among many gardeners.

Mulch lilies with 4 to 6 inches of mulch, such as straw, leaves or wood chips, in the fall; remove in the spring when frost is no longer a threat. Mulch protects the bulbs that first winter while they're becoming established and should be applied immediately after a fall planting. For established lily beds, cover with mulch only after the ground begins to freeze in areas where snow cover is not reliable to keep the soil from freezing and thawing repeatedly.

Fertilize lilies in the spring with a fertilizer labeled 5-10-10. Lightly sprinkle a handful around each clump of plants, but don't get any on the foliage.

Prune the foliage when it browns. Otherwise, keep it intact so the lilies can photosynthesize sunlight into energy for next year's plants.