Resurrection lilies, also known as Lycoris squamigera or surprise lilies, are renowned for their beautiful and fragrant pink trumpet-shaped flowers that magically emerge from the ground in late summer. Transplanting these lilies can be a delicate process, but with a little care and the following three methods, you’ll be able to successfully move your resurrection lilies to a new location in your garden or home.

1. Transplanting Bulbs in Dormancy

The best time to transplant resurrection lilies is during their dormant period when the foliage has died back. This typically occurs in late fall or early spring. Follow these steps for a successful transplant:

– Choose a location with well-draining soil that receives full sun or partial shade.

– Using a gardening fork, gently pry the bulbs out of the ground, taking care not to damage them.

– Prepare the new planting site by loosening the soil and adding compost if necessary.

– Plant the bulbs 4 to 6 inches deep and 6 to 8 inches apart with the pointed end facing up.

– Water thoroughly after planting and keep the soil consistently moist.

2. Dividing and Transplanting Clumps

As resurrection lilies multiply naturally, they can sometimes become overcrowded, which may affect their growth and bloom. To divide and transplant clumps:

– Identify overcrowded clumps while the foliage is still visible but has started to die back.

– Use a gardening fork to carefully lift the entire clump out of the ground.

– Gently separate individual bulbs by hand or with a garden tool if necessary.

– Follow the same planting preparation and procedure as grafting dormant bulbs (method 1).

– Water generously after planting.

3. Container-Grown Resurrection Lilies

Transplanting container-grown resurrection lilies offers better control over their growth conditions. When transplanting or repotting, consider the following steps:

– Choose an appropriate container with drainage holes and fill it with well-draining potting mix.

– Carefully remove the lilies from the old container, ensuring that the root system stays intact.

– Plant the bulbs at a depth of 4 to 6 inches in the new container, maintaining the required spacing.

– Water thoroughly after planting, ensuring the soil is kept consistently moist.

In conclusion, transplanting resurrection lilies can be achieved through transplanting dormant bulbs, dividing and transplanting clumps, or repotting container-grown lilies. By following these methods and taking care to prepare your chosen site adequately, you’ll be able to enjoy the captivating beauty of these surprise blooms year after year.