Collection of Four Martagon Lilies

These hybrid Martagon Lilies are a little more difficult to establish than Asian, Trumpet or Oriental lilies. They may take an additional season before flowering, and the planting conditions must be carefully considered. The Martagon Lilies sulk when they are moved and need time to settle. Perfect drainage must be ensured, a rocky soil suits them very well, so that the bulbs are not in overly wet substrate during their dormancy period, after flowering. It is strongly advised against using a classic compost for martagon lilies and their hybrids, but instead adding a well-rotted compost or leaf soil in autumn is desirable. This lily appreciates slightly humus-rich and moist soils, limestone is not a problem if the soil is rich. You can plant it in partial shade or sun, preferably in October or in spring, burying the bulbs 15 cm (6in) deep in a mixture of soil and leaf compost. Optionally, surround them with a pocket of sand that will protect them from rot and slug attacks. Mark the planting location, as vegetation only starts in April. Staking is not necessary. If red lily beetles appear, treat them immediately, as their larvae can devour all the leaves. The most effective method is to catch them manually, but be careful as they drop as soon as they are touched, so put a box underneath.  After flowering, it is useful to cut the faded flowers to keep the bed beautiful during summer. Your lilies will be available from early October.