Surprise Lilies - All You Need to Know About Lycoris (Surprise Lily, Hurricane Lily, Spider Lily)

[@taylorswf23]

We moved to a property that had been last lived-on in 2002. Imagine my delight when these delightful flowers emerged in July, then September! Thanks to Tony I now know what two types we have 😊

[@rebeccadouglas7615]

I love your t-shirt and your older catalogs.

[@diehard6348]

I have some surprise lilies un my garden and the question that I have whether I should cut back the stem after blooming ? If yes , how much should I cut it back ? Thanks

[@Plantdelights]

Lycoris flower stems can be cut back to the ground after flowering. They also make good cut flowers and last several days in arrangements. Thank you and happy gardening!

[@diehard6348]

@@Plantdelights thanks for that !!

[@leannmoylan2646]

Interesting, but disappointing... Most of us are not trying to breed or accumulate every variety. Sadly this didnt answer a single one of my questions, so...NOT all I need to know about Lycoris... I'm looking for when to dig bulbs, how to save bulbs to replant at a new property, how long will they store until I can get them in the ground, do they need to be planted in fall or can they be planted in spring... I can't find anyone to answer my questions and there is not a great reference anywhere on the internet.

[@Plantdelights]

Hello Leann! Thank you for your questions. Lycoris can be dug at any time of the year in our zone 7b, if your purpose is simply to relocate them. They may not bloom right after transplant, but they will certainly survive. Trim foliage before planting back in the ground to reduce stress. As for storage, Lycoris bulbs like moisture and organic matter. They do not like having dry roots and do not do well in soil-less container mixes (pine bark, perlite, etc.) Use regular potting mix and plant as soon as you can.

[@AngelaCoffey-tn2qw]

When can I separate my plants. They leaf out in spring and bloom pink blooms in July

[@Plantdelights]

Hello! We usually divide Lycoris in spring or fall. Keep them well watered during and after transplanting to avoid root shock. Thank you and happy gardening!

[@johnhesteraton6991]

Hi, I have a question . Do spider lilies grow in Southeast asia? Like the tropical climates like amaryllis? i really love it to grow, and im from the Philippines

[@Plantdelights]

Hello! Interesting question. We are not experts on tropical climates, but we would expect most of the species to do well in your area. Lycoris are summer dormant, meaning they do not rely on cold weather for dormancy signaling. Lycoris sqamidgera is the only one that mentions winter chill requirement. If you have a botanic garden in your area, we suggest asking them for advice. Good luck!

[@johnhesteraton6991]

@@Plantdelights yes how about Lycoris Radiata does grow in tropics?

[@Plantdelights]

Yes radiata should do well in your area.

[@johnhesteraton6991]

@Plantdelights Really? Thank you. I hope I planted in pot. Should lycoris radiata not tolerate the indirect sun and don't like cold weather? But Lycoris Radiata extends into tropical climate?

[@janetb-j3576]

Rodent proof?

[@Plantdelights]

Yes