Lily of the Valley (White)Convallaria majalis

Caution: toxic if eaten. Lily of the Valley grows best in a shady or semi shady position. However it will grow in sun provided that soil is kept reliably moist throughout hot summers. Plant Lily of the Valley pips in autumn or spring in moist, well drained, fertile soil. Add plenty of well rotted manure or compost. Plant pips at a depth of 3cm (1") and 15cm (6") apart. Firm soil around pips and water well. Overcrowded clumps can be lifted, potted up and brought indoors for a beautiful display. Replant outdoors after flowering.

These plants are lifted from the nursery field when dormant, and sent to you in late autumn or spring for planting. They often look dead on arrival, but they are just resting in the dormant period and will establish quickly for a strong start in the garden come spring. Set out in prepared soil in holes wide enough and deep enough to lay out the roots. Tread down the planting soil to knock out air pockets. Water well to settle. Apply a mulch to protect roots from cold temperatures. If conditions prevent immediate planting, set roughly into loose soil or a pot of compost (‘heeling in’) to protect the roots. The growth points of most bare root perennials should be set about an inch below the soil surface. New growth will appear in spring.

Water regularly throughout the growing season. Lily of the Valley particularly dislikes dry soil in summer! Allow the foliage to die back naturally as this will help to feed the pips for the following year. Any yellowed foliage can then be removed. In autumn, apply a mulch of well rotted manure or compost.

Seeds and garden supplies will normally be delivered within the time period stated against each product as detailed above. Plants, bulbs, corms, tubers, shrubs, trees, potatoes, etc. are delivered at the appropriate time for planting or potting on. Delivery times will be stated on the product page above, or in your order acknowledgement page and email.

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