How to Save Lily Bulbs

Most lily varieties, such as oriental lilies, grow from a hardy bulb structure. The bulb stores food and energy every summer that is then used for the following year's flowering. Most lilies are hardy plants that survive winter temperatures once established, but newly planted bulbs can be damaged by freezing weather. Store bulbs until most spring frost danger is past, then plant them in warm ground where they can quickly send forth roots. Lilies do not tolerate long storage, but two to three months won't harm them.

Things You'll Need

• Powdered sulfur
• Peat moss
• Mesh sacks

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Instructions

1. • 1

     Inspect each bulb for signs of disease. Look for soft or discolored spots. Dispose of any diseased bulbs.

   • 2

     Dust each bulb with powdered sulfur, available from garden centers. The sulfur prevents fungus and some insects from infesting the bulbs during storage.

   • 3

     Moisten the peat moss until it is barely damp. Pack the peat moss around the lily bulbs.

   • 4

     Place the lily bulbs into a mesh sack. Hang them in a cool, dry and dark room until you are ready to plant them.