Expert: Kenneth Joergensen - 7/9/2006

Question
I have purchased stargazer lily bulbs from different sellers and I was disappointed when they bloomed that they did not have the wonderful smell to them like the one I have purchased from a florist.  They are white with a pink center, very pretty, but they do not have the deep pink speckled color like you see in photo's of them.  I live in Ohio, 44240. Am I buying the wrong lillies?

Thanks

Answer
It does not sound like stargazers (unfortunately many retailers will sell any kind of lily as stargazer). Try johnscheepers.com or bdlilies.com for good vendors.

Also, plant in full sun or atleast 1/2 day sun, and at proper dept (3 x the height of the bulb). Use mulch (2-3") and water regularily through the summer months.

Fertilize in early spring as the plants stick their head above ground and again as flower buds appear (this is for health of the plants, and have no effect on the scent).