[suziequeue]

We have had lilies in a pot for the last three years and this winter they are being divided for the first time.

I have found three or four big big bulbs (pictures 1 and 2) and a number of small bulblets.

I was just going to divide the big bulbs and bulblets between three pots or so and leave it at that but should I be trying to "break up" the big bulbs - they look like Jerusalem artichokes or big garlic bulbs......

I would be grateful for any advice.

This whole repotting thing has taken me ages. I don't know why I am procrastinating about it so much but have got to the stage now where I have put soil in the pots that the bulbs are going to be divided into and I have separated out and brushed off the bulbs etc. Now I need to crack on and finish the job!!!

Grateful for any hot tips 

[darkbrowneggs]

Each of the "scales" could grow into a large lily, but it will take time
 
I would replant the big bulbs whole, taking off a few scales if you are looking to increase the stock, albeit slowly.  And plant the smaller bulbs in a seperate pot, with any loose scales in a more shallow pot.
 
Years ago I bought expensive Regale album bulbs which flowered with poor little stems with only one or two pips each.  Now they are big and lots of pips.  Don't forget if you ever cut a flower head it will seriously weaken the plant as all the "leaves" they have are on the stems, so if you reduce the stems you stop them from feeding themselves
 
A bit of seaweed meal included in the potting mix or scattered on the top helps them feed themselves, and improves colour and scent.

[suziequeue]

Thanks DBE. That's really helpful.


I do want to increase the stock so I will plant separately as you suggest. They are lovely plants so I want to have a few flowering each year. We only cut the stems back once they have completely died off at the end of the summer.


Are you suggesting that I shouldn't cut the stems at all? even over winter?