growing lily of the valley in pots indoors

Growing Lily of the Valley in Pots Indoors: The Complete Guide

Lily of the valley is a classic spring flower that many gardeners love. It has beautiful white bell-shaped flowers that smell wonderful. This lovely plant is usually grown outside in gardens, but it can also do well grown indoors in pots. Growing lily of the valley in pots inside can be very rewarding if you know what you’re doing. We will show you everything you need to know to grow these beautiful plants in your home in this detailed guide.

Choosing High-Quality Rhizomes

The first critical step is procuring high-quality rhizomes, as this lays the foundation for success. Look for large, firm rhizomes without any signs of mold, rotting, or desiccation. Each pot will need between 6-12 rhizomes. Only choose rhizomes marketed as “forced” or prepared specially for indoor growth. Avoid using rhizomes dug fresh from the garden, as they require a cold winter dormancy period. Forced rhizomes from a reputable supplier have already undergone the necessary vernalization and pre-cooling to stimulate flowering indoors.

Also, when you choose rhizomes is very important. For holiday flowers, look for rhizomes that have been chilled in the fall. If you ship rhizomes in early spring, they will bloom in four to six weeks. Always choose the freshest rhizomes you can find.

Providing Optimal Potting Conditions

Choose a wide, shallow pot, at least 7-9 inches wide. The shallow depth helps prevent root rot. Ensure the container has drainage holes. For the soil, use a lightweight, well-draining potting mix amended with perlite or vermiculite for aeration. Maintain a slightly acidic pH around 6.0-6.5. Place a layer of pebbles at the bottom for extra drainage.

Mound the soil in the center of the pot. Arrange the rhizomes closely on this mound with growing tips facing outward. Bury them under 1-2 inches of soil. Plant the rhizomes 1-2 inches apart. For forcing indoors avoid exceedingly large containers. Smaller pots with less soil simulate outdoor growing conditions.

Providing the Right Growing Conditions

Lily of the valley has particular needs for optimal growth:

• Lighting: Bright, indirect light is ideal. Avoid hot direct sunlight.

• Temperature: Cool conditions between 50-65°F are best. Avoid excess heat.

• Watering: Keep soil evenly moist, not soaked. Allow top inch to dry before watering.

• Humidity: Mist leaves and use pebble trays to increase humidity.

• Air Circulation: Good airflow prevents fungal disease. Use fans if required.

• Fertilization: Use balanced liquid fertilizer every 2-3 weeks during growth.

By providing these ideal conditions, you can keep your potted lily of the valley thriving indoors. Monitor the plants closely and adjust as needed.

Troubleshooting Common Problems

Despite the best care, some challenges can arise when growing lily of the valley in pots indoors:

• Few or no flowers – Likely caused by excess heat or insufficient chilling. Move pots to a cooler spot and use pre-chilled rhizomes.

• Wilting – Overwatering induces rotting and wilt. Allow soil to dry adequately between waterings.

• Yellow leaves – Indicates overwatering. Check for root rot and reduce watering frequency.

• Tip burn – Dry air causes brown leaf tips. Increase humidity through misting and pebble trays.

• Fungal diseases – Improve airflow and reduce moisture to prevent issues like botrytis.

With prompt troubleshooting adjustments, your potted lily of the valley will continue thriving. Do not hesitate to modify your care regimen when problems occur.

Enjoying Lily of the Valley Indoors

When you grow lily of the valley in pots indoors, one of the best things is getting to see its delicate beauty up close. The bell-shaped flowers that nod show off their unique flare with tiny petal tips that are turned up. Emerging flower stalks and oval leaves create a cascading effect.

Place the pots in entryways, on windowsills, or anywhere the sweet fragrance can be enjoyed. Cut a few stems to display in small vases. With the right rhizomes, soil, and growing conditions, you can successfully cultivate these elegant spring flowers indoors. Follow this guide for growing lily of the valley in pots, and you will be rewarded with its captivating presence and perfume bringing nature’s grace into your home.