Expert: Laura Walker - 12/29/2004

Question
My son is getting married in August. They want to have stargazer lillies in pots for the centerpieces. Could these be started and grown to bloom around August 21st and how would I go about ensuring their best blooms at this specific time.
They though terra cotta pots with lillies and daisys. This would cost so much at the florist..thought perhaps with the right knowledge we could grow them ourselves
Thank you for your help!

Answer
Vera,
Yes it would be much less expensive to grow them yourself.I will give you some websites to mail order them,because the fresher they are and the most top quality bulbs will bloom better for you on time.I would say plant them in pots in late May if you are located in zones 2 to 5(Northern zones) and early June if you are in zones 6 to 11(warmer climates from Kentucky down.)This may be a bit like guessing on the date of birth of a baby,but I cannot guarantee they will,but that is the time I would recommend.Stargazer Lilys are summer blooming bulbs,and usually bloom mid to late summer.The taller Oriental lilys bloom in late summer here because I have some.They are gorgeous pink and white striped sort of.Daisies bloom at about the same time,so that would be a great mixture.Go to your local florist ahead of time to make sure they will have the type of daisy you want at the right time and when you notice the lilies coming up go ahead and plant the lilies in the pot with them.Make sure they get full son and stay moist but not wet.Put the same amount of bulbs in each pot so it will look even.Some greenery might be nice as well.Like ivy or ferns but that can be put in at the last minute to make a more finished centerpiece.
If you have further questions,let me know.Good luck!
Sources:
Go to: www.vandycks.com,www.vanbourgondien.com,www.mzbulb.com (aka McClure&Zimmerman Quality Flower Bulbs),www.dutchgardens.com,jacksonandperkins.com,wayside gardens.com