Choosing Lilies If you want to grow a plant that is easy to maintain, beautiful and colorful then lilies are the best option for you. Studies show that lilies are considered as one of the most popular flowers in the world along with rose. In fact, it is the fourth most popular flower across the globe. Since lilies do not go dormant for a long time, it is best to buy bulbs when it is already near planting time. Here are some things to keep in mind when buying lily bulbs: When buying lily bulbs, check if the bulbs have any kind of sprouts. According to experts, it is best to buy a bulb with a sprout of not more than one inch. Fertilize the soil with a phosphorus formula like the 5-10-10. Follow the instructions to the letter in fertilizer application. Slow-release fertilizers work very well with lilies. Pests Lilies have few enemies, but aphids and botrytis blight (a fungal disease) can cause problems on the buds and leaves, respectively. Also, consider the span of time you will carry the lily to your car because it can damage the plant if the temperature is not right. Inside the car, make sure to place the lilies in front of the car before turning on the heater. Make sure that you do not place the plant inside the trunk because it s too cold. Like the other summer plants (dahlias, peonies, gladioli), lilies can be planted in the spring which can then blossom that very summer. Actually, the best assortment of varieties of the hardy lilies is available in the spring. Also, the bulbs of these hardy lilies are very easy to plant and cultivate. Make sure that the bulbs are about 12 inches apart for the smalls ones and 18 inches for the larger ones. After planting, water them and this would make sure that the soil is damp enough to provide moisture. Make sure that there are no air pockets. When the first shoots emerged, make sure to mark the bulbs since you may accidentally step on them.