How to grow Lily in the UK
Lilium
Lily (Lilium) is a flower that grows well in UK gardens. Watch for bright red lily beetles — squash on sight. Asiatic lilies are easier than Oriental. This guide covers when and how to sow Lily, the soil and position it likes, watering and feeding, companion planting, and when to harvest.
Type
Flowers
Difficulty
Moderate
Position
full sun (6+ hrs direct)
Sow
spring
Harvest
—
When to sow & grow Lily
Sowing and harvest window through the year (UK):
Jan | Feb | Mar Plant | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov Plant | Dec |
Soil, position & care
- Soil
- Rich, free-draining soil
- Soil pH
- 6.0–7.5
- Position
- Full sun and shelter
- Sowing depth
- 10–15 cm deep (varies by type)
- Spacing
- 10–30 cm apart
- Sowing
- Plant in spring after frost; lift tender types (dahlia, gladioli) before winter in cold areas
- Growing
- Water and feed in growth; stake tall types
- Harvest & upkeep
- Deadhead; lift and store tender bulbs/tubers over winter where frosts are hard
- Watch for
- Slugs, earwigs and aphids on soft growth
Companion planting for Lily
No specific companion notes for this plant.
Grow Lily this year
Add Lily to your free 12-month plan and get watering & sowing reminders — no sign-up needed.
Lily FAQs
How much sun does Lily need?
Lily prefers full sun (6+ hrs direct).
Is Lily easy to grow?
Moderate. Watch for bright red lily beetles — squash on sight. Asiatic lilies are easier than Oriental.