Canada Lily: A Guide to Growing and Enjoying this Wildflower
Canada lily, also known as wild yellow lily or meadow lily, is a stunning wildflower that produces lance-shaped leaves and enchanting yellow, orange, or red, trumpet-shaped flowers in midsummer. These hardy plants are native to the eastern areas of Canada and the United States and can be found growing along roadsides, in moist meadows, and woodlands, along streams, or in marshy areas.
Growing Canada Lilies
Canada lilies are relatively easy to grow and can be started from seed or bulbs. If you choose to start from seed, expect to wait five or six years for the plants to bloom. You can also purchase bulbs from garden centers or online.
To plant Canada lily bulbs, choose a location that receives sun or partial shade and has well-drained, loamy soil. Plant the bulbs twice their depth, which generally means each bulb should be covered with about 4 inches of soil. Space the bulbs 12 to 15 inches apart.
Water the area regularly at soil level to keep the soil moist but not drenched. Do your best to keep the foliage dry and beware of overwatering. Canada lily wildflowers thrive in moist, but not soggy soil.
Canada Lily Propagation
Canada lilies can be propagated by seed, bulb division, or rhizome division.
Seed Propagation:
- Collect seeds from mature plants in autumn.
- Allow the pods to dry completely.
- Save the dry seeds for planting the following spring.
Bulb Division:
- Dig up mature bulbs in autumn.
- Divide the bulbs into smaller sections, each with its own roots.
- Replant the divided bulbs immediately.
Rhizome Division:
- Dig up mature plants in autumn.
- Divide the rhizomes into smaller sections, each with its own roots.
- Replant the divided rhizomes immediately.
Benefits of Canada Lilies
Canada lilies are a beautiful and beneficial addition to any garden. They attract hummingbirds, butterflies, and bees with their fragrant blooms. The nectar from the flowers is also a valuable food source for these pollinators.
In addition to their beauty and wildlife benefits, Canada lilies are also relatively low-maintenance plants. They are drought-tolerant and can survive in a variety of soil conditions.
Troubleshooting
Canada lilies are generally trouble-free plants, but they can be susceptible to a few pests and diseases.
- Aphids: These small, green insects can suck the sap from Canada lily leaves, causing them to turn yellow and drop off. Aphids can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
- Spider mites: These tiny pests can also suck the sap from Canada lily leaves, causing them to turn brown and dry out. Spider mites can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
- Botrytis: This fungal disease can cause the bulbs and foliage of Canada lilies to rot. Botrytis can be prevented by planting the bulbs in well-drained soil and avoiding overwatering.
Conclusion
Canada lilies are a beautiful and easy-to-grow addition to any garden. With their showy flowers and attractive foliage, these plants are sure to add beauty and interest to your landscape.