Expert: Kenneth Joergensen - 6/12/2004

Question
I moved asiatic lilies last year and they are not doing well at all.  Should I move them again, if so when is the best time?  Should I wait it out to see how they do next year?  Thank you.

Answer
The best time to move asiatic lilies are after flowering just as the stem is turning brown.

Asiatic lilies prefer partial shade in a bed which can be watered reguarily. They prefer to have their feet in shade but their tops in sun. A placement behind a perennial is ideal as the small sprouts will have full sun as they grow in the early spring and as they get larger, developing perennials will grow up and shade the flower stem.

always plant in loose aerated soil (soil to which plenty of organic matter, such as compost has been added). Do not plant where standing water is a problem. Good drainage is a must. Never add hot manure to the planting hole.

Do you know why they are doing poorly ? if it is insect attacks, then spraying next spring may help the problem. If they are planted in a poor draining spot, in too much shade, or hot uncompromising sun, or otherwise placed where they growth is restricted then moving them should help.

If you think the spot is ok, but the soil is too compact, you could dig them in fall and mix in plenty of organic matter. Then replant.