Lily of the Valley is scientifically have intercourse asConvallaria majalis . It belong to the family unit Asparagaceae , previously sort under the Liliaceae family . Within the genusConvallaria , this species is noted for its buzzer - influence blossom and spreading rhizomes .
Lily of the Valley has a productive history steeped in folklore and symbolism . It has been mentioned in literature and art since medieval times in Europe . It was associated with various myths , include being considered as the weeping of the Virgin Mary in Christian lore , hence one of its common names , “ Our Lady ’s snag . ” Historically , it has been used for its fragrance in perfumery and for medicinal function , although its toxic nature restrain its use . In the 19th and 20th centuries , it became a popular garden plant in Europe and North America due to its magical appearance and mellifluous scent .
Originally , Convallaria majalisis aboriginal to the cool temperate regions of the Northern Hemisphere , specifically in Europe and Asia . It grows in woodlands , preferring the semi - shade of deciduous forest . While it is not native to North America , there ’s a form , Convallaria majalisvar.montana , which some sources suggest was native to North America , though this is a discipline of argument as it might have been introduce through European settlement .
Lily of the Valley is a perennial industrial plant , have in mind it returns yr after yr , growing from its rhizomatous roots . Under ideal condition , these plants can last for decades , spreading and take form dumb colonies over sentence if not cope . They go dormant in winter , regrow in the spring .
Lily of the Valley is hardy and can flourish in USDA Hardiness Zones 2 through 9 . This wide scope indicates its adaptability to various temperate climates , from very cold winters to milder ones . However , in the warm end of this spectrum , peculiarly in zone 8 and 9 , it might require more ghost and wet to prevent stress from heat .
How To Grow Lily of the Valley In Pots & Containers
Choosing the Right Pot
Opt for a wide , shallow potentiometer to accommodate the spreading nature of Lily of the Valley ’s rootstock . A tidy sum with a diameter of at least 12 inch will furnish enough space for initial maturation . insure the potentiometer has good drainage holes to foreclose waterlogging , which can lead to root rot .
Soil Selection
Lily of the Valley fly high in well - draining , rich , hummus - filled soil with a slightly acidulous to neutral pH ( around 6.0 to 7.0 ) . you could utilise a mixing of potting soil , peat moss , and perlite or sand for improved drainage . append compost or well - waste manure can enrich the soil with nutrients .
Planting Time
The best time to plant Lily of the Valley in pots is in the fall or other outflow when the soil is nerveless but workable . This timing aligns with the plant ’s natural growth cycles/second , allow rootage to establish before the participating growing time of year .
Planting Pips
Lily of the Valley is typically planted using pip ( small radical department with buds ) . infinite these pip about 2 - 3 column inch apart in the grime , with the buds facing upwardly . cross them with about an column inch of soil , insure not to eat up them too profoundly .
Watering
After planting , water the soil exhaustively to settle it around the pips . Keep the soil systematically moist but not waterlogged . During growth , peculiarly when bloom , Lily of the Valley requires more frequent watering . thin out tearing in winter as the plant goes abeyant .
Light Conditions
In pots , Lily of the Valley prefer partial to full shade . Direct sunlight can be too intense , leading to blacken leaves . If indoors , place the sens near a compass north or east - facing windowpane , or use a short shade material if outdoors in brilliant condition .
Temperature
These plants are hardy but in pots , they can be more susceptible to temperature extreme . Protect pots from Robert Frost by moving them indoors or to a sheltered arena during rough winter . In summer , ensure they are n’t exhibit to too much hotness .
fertilisation
Use a balanced , slow - release fertilizer in early spring to further emergence . A second light eating after efflorescence can be beneficial but avoid over - fertilizing , which can result to lush foliage at the expense of flowers .
repot
Every mates of days , you ’ll need to repot your Lily of the Valley to prevent overcrowding . lightly hook the plant , divide the rhizomes , and replant in impudent soil . This also helps to manage the plant ’s bedcover and rejuvenates the soil .
Pruning
After bloom , remove spent flowers to encourage possible reblooming or to maintain the plant ’s coming into court . Cut back any icteric or numb foliage in late descent or early wintertime to promote salubrious growing in outflow .
Pest and Disease Management
Keep an optic out for slugs and snails , which are attracted to the lush foliage . Aphids might also be an payoff . Use organic gadfly ascendance method like neem oil or introduce good insects . expert air circulation help preclude fungal diseases .
Winter Care
If you ’re in a colder mood , consider mulch the top of the grease with constitutive fabric like wheat or leaves to insulate the roots . If very cold conditions is carry , you might move the pot to a cool , unheated garage or shed , ensuring it does n’t freeze out solid but stays below 40 ° F to keep sleeping .
