Exotic, fragrant, and exceptionally tough, these hybrids combine the best characteristics of Oriental and trumpet lilies.
Oriental and trumpetliliesare two popular types, and hybrid Orienpet lilies combine the best qualities of both.
Here’s how to grow Orienpet lilies of your own and keep them happy in your garden.
Orienpet lilies come in a variety of gorgeous colors.Credit: Carson Downing
Cover the bulbs with soil, pressing firmly to remove any air pockets, then water well.
Orienpet lilies arehardy in Zones 4-9.
In mid-spring and early summer, scratch low-nitrogen fertilizer into the soil around each bulb.
‘Black Beauty’ Orienpet lilies are a favorite in the Better Homes & Gardens Test Garden because they come back stronger every year.Credit: Blaine Moats
This will encourage strong growth and more gorgeous flowers.
When the foliage starts yellowing in the fall, cut the stalks off just above ground level.
Then, in the spring, gently rake away the mulch.
Credit: Laurie Black
Orienpets alsoneed to be dividedevery four or five years.
In early fall, divide the plants by digging up and separating the bulbs.
Then replant where you want, or share some extra bulbs with friends.
Credit: Andre Baranowski
Deer and voles are the primary pests that might threaten your lilies.
The buds can be tempting to deer, but spray-on repellent can help keep them at bay.
For voles, plant the bulbs in a plastic flowerpot with the bottom cut out.
Credit: Blaine Moats
Then, bury the pot up to the rim.
Crocosmia also needs full sun and well-drained soil, and the flowers attracthummingbirds.
Plant the small, bulb-like corms in fall, when you would plant the lilies.
