Luck with lilies

Back in 2006 I saw Martagon lilies in a local garden and fell for them. I bit the bullet and bought three bulbs of 'Mrs. R. O. Backhouse' from Klehm's Song Sparrow Nursery. They cost a whopping 3/$56.00 and I was very nervous at spending that kind of money on plants, let alone bulbs.

But Mrs. Backhouse has been a workhorse since the day she arrived. I now have a huge sweep of them. Some time ago I moved two groups of bulbs onto the slope below the Tea House. They have done so well that I dug them out yesterday. Both groups were planted near little trees which have now engulfed them. It's had to believe that the almost invisible little Hemlock by the lilies in this photo is now a bigger presence than the bulbs.

I assumed that the plants looked so tall because they were growing on a slope above me. Nope. They are easily 5 and a half feet tall. They are going over quickly in the heat, so I didn't feel too bad about digging them out.

But I was surprised to discover one of the bulbs had sent out bulblets and the whole thing had grown together in a huge clump of six connected stems. I am going to replant them in the Tea House garden but in locations where they hopefully won't have to get moved again. 

Comments

[Kris P]

I'd definitely grow those if I thought I had a chance in heck of them surviving. They're beautiful and I hope they love their new spot.

[Kristin]

I got Martagon lilies for last year because of yours. I love them!

[Linda Brazill]

KRISTIN — Aren't they just the best flowers! They are still so pricey but I just ordered three pink ones called 'Slate's Morning.' I figured I should branch out since they are doing so well for me. 

[ceci]

I got 6 year before last inspired by yours - not doing nearly as well so I am wondering if I should move them someplace sunnier, or with less competition from crepe myrtle, etc. Always something.

ceci

[danger garden]

I had no idea they were so expensive! I do love the look. Does the foliage stay nice after the flowers fade?