Ask John Negus
How can I grow Madonna lilies well?
Q Could you please advise me how to grow a Madonna lily? I have tried for many years but to no avail. Maybe it is too cold and damp here in North Leitrim, Ireland. We get a lot of rain each year and I live at an altitude of approximately 918ft (280m,) which is above the winter snow line.
Dorothy Reeder, Co. Leitrim.
A I am delighted that you wish to grow Madonna lilies (Lilium candidum), but are having trouble getting them to survive.
The only evergreen species of lily – clumps are readily visible in winter – it’s best grown in free-draining soil.
Set bulbs in autumn, just covering them, in fertile soil augmented with a liberal quantity of coarse grit.
While they are easy to grow – they flower in midsummer – be vigilant, for lily beetles can shred the foliage.
If you notice leaves are being chewed and red beetles can be seen, hand pick and destroy them, then spray with a systemic insecticide, such as Bug Clear Ultra, or a deterrent such as Grazers G4. Reapply every three weeks.
Ideally, mulch your charges with composted manure to conserve moisture in dry spells. Also remove faded blooms to stop them from
