This is a hardyground coverthat spreads gradually but persistently to form dense colonies.
It is considered invasive in much of the Midwest and Northeast.
Be aware that lily of the valley is toxic to humans and pets.
The Spruce / Evgeniya Vlasova
Gardeners commonly use itunder treeswhere many other plants wont grow due to the shade.
Plant the rhizomes about 6 inches apart, with the growth buds buried about 1/2 inch deep.
This plant needs little attention to thrive once its established.
The Spruce / Evgeniya Vlasova
It is a long-lived plant that doesnt have any serious issues with pests or diseases.
Plan to water during dry spells.
Light
Plant lily of the valley inpartial sunto full shade.
The Spruce / Evgeniya Vlasova
Direct morning sun is all right, but the plant needs protection from the harsh afternoon sun.
And if you live in a warmer part of its growing zones, full shade is best.
Soil
Lily of the valley prefers organically rich soil with good drainage.
The Spruce / Evgeniya Vlasova
But it can grow in a range of soil types, including clay soil.
It likesacidic to neutral soil pHbut can tolerate slightly alkaline soil, too.
Water
This plant prefers consistently moist but not soggy soil.
The Spruce / Evgeniya Vlasova
Water the soil whenever it begins to dry out due to a lack of rainfall and/or hot weather.
Soil that is too dry will impede the plants growth and flowering.
Temperature and Humidity
Lily of the valley prefers mild conditions with average humidity.
Temperatures between 60 and 70 degrees are best.
The plant doesn’t do well in dry, hot climates.
Even in mild climates, it might die back during the hottest summer months, returning in spring.
Fertilizer
Lily of the valley typically doesnt need any fertilizer unless you have poor soil.
If your soil lacks nutrients, you’re able to add a slow-release granularfertilizerin the spring.
For the amount to use, follow the product label instructions.
Allow the foliage to remain in place and decay, which provides a natural mulch for the plants.
Division serves both to create new plants and rejuvenate old colonies that have become too thick.
Lily of the valley can easily be grown in well-draining pots filled with standard potting mix.
The containers can be any material.
Potted plants can be moved to a sheltered location to overwinter.
If given this annual dormant period, the plants will bloom indoors for about four weeks each year.
Pest issues are rarely serious.
Common diseases include stem rot, various fungal leaf spots, and anthracnose, none of which are serious.
Affected plant parts can be removed and destroyed.
If browning foliage occurs during midsummer, it’s likely a natural reaction to hot weather.
Aggressive Growth
Lily of the valley can spread quite aggressively if growing in ideal circumstances.
The flower spikes make good additions to cut-flower arrangements, so they are often grown in shady cutting gardens.
Any small remaining pieces will re-sprout, so be prepared to watch out for new plants springing up.
It may take a couple of years to eradicate all traces of a colony.
North Carolina State Extension.
