This question was asked by
– Sharon J – 

Hi. I bought some bulbs at the RHS W-W show and planted them immediately as per instructions. They are growing well and have flower buds. Should I remove these to let the plants put energy back into the bulbs for next year, or let them get as far as they can given it is mid September?

Hi,

It’s great to hear your bulbs are growing so well! At this stage, it’s best to let the flower buds continue to develop. Once the flowers have finished, you can allow the foliage to die back naturally. This way, the plant can store energy back into the bulb for next year’s growth.

You don’t need to remove the buds now—just enjoy the flowers when they bloom and then let the leaves do their work. If the weather turns really cold, bring them flowers indoors to finish off flowering.

The Hart Family

This question was asked by
– Justine S

Hello, I have bought the following lilies from you. Lily Sunny Martinique and Roselily Anouska. when I looked at buying John Innes Number 3 it stated it was for mature plants. Is this the correct compost for the above lilies?

Best wishes, Justine.

Hi Justine
Yes John Innes No 3 is recommended for most lilies. If it appears too dense add some horticultural grit and peat-free multi-purpose compost or leaf mould to improve drainage.

The Hart Family

This question was asked by
– Tricia

Is it safe to assume that all your oriental lilies smell wonderful? Sorry if that sounds a weird question but for me fragrance is the most important part of a lily!
Thanks

Hi there,
Yes all Oriental varieties are highly scented, the whiter they are, the stronger the perfume as they attract the wildlife by their scent more than their colour. Our Roselilies are highly scented too even though they don’t produce the stamen.

Oriental Lilies

Roselilies

The Hart Family