How to Grow Glory Lilies

Soak glory lily seeds overnight in warm water. Sow the seeds in peat pots and lightly cover with peat. Do this at the middle of winter, in late January or February. It will take about a month for the seeds to germinate at a temperature of 70 degrees Fahrenheit. Seeds sprout slowly and may take up to four months to get started.

Select a planting location that receives full sunlight most of the day. Glory lilies tend to grow best when they have morning sun and afternoon shade. Remaining in full sun throughout the day may stress the plants.

Prepare the soil so that it is high in organic content and has good drainage. Glory lilies prefer a soil that is rich in humus. Avoid planting them in soil that has a high salt content.

Transplant the seedlings or tubers outside in mid- to late spring after danger of frost has passed and temperatures are above 50 degrees F. Plant them 2 inches deep (lay tubers on their side) and space approximately a foot apart.

Provide a trellis that is 8 to 12 feet high for the glory lilies to climb. Use a lightweight twine to tie the stems of the lilies to the trellis as they grow to provide additional support.

Water regularly to prevent wilting. Water to keep the soil moist, but do not allow the soil to become soggy. After the lilies bloom, gradually reduce the amount of water. Add a thin layer of mulch in the fall to help the soil retain moisture.

Feed the glory lilies throughout the blooming season. Apply a light application of a slow-released, balanced fertilizer every two weeks. Follow label instructions.

Dig up dormant tubers in the late fall in areas where winter temperatures fall below 20 degrees F. Place the tubers in peat moss and store in a cool, dry place with a temperature of 40 to 45 degrees F, such as a basement or storage area.