Lily of the Valley Growing Guide

Convallaria majalis

Crop Rotation Group

Miscellaneous ●

Soil

Fertile soil that holds moisture well, with a neutral to slightly alkaline pH.

Position

Partial shade.

Frost tolerant

Yes, lily of the valley is a hardy perennial bulb, tolerating cold to -34°C (-30°F).

Feeding

The need to feed lily of the valley depends on the site. In poor soil, feed plants with a balanced organic fertiliser in early spring when they are actively growing.

Spacing

Single Plants: 10cm (3") each way (minimum)
Rows: 10cm (3") with 10cm (3") row gap (minimum)

Sow and Plant

Plant dormant bulbs, called pips, in groups of 3 or more in autumn, after the soil has lost its summer warmth, covering them with 5cm (2 inches) of soil. The plants will slowly grow roots through winter and bloom the following spring. Lily of the valley forms vigorous clumps that also can be dug, divided and replanted first thing in spring.
Our Garden Planner can produce a personalised calendar of when to sow, plant and harvest for your area.

Notes

In much of Europe, lily of the valley blooms around the first of May. The plants naturalise easily in partial shade, spreading by rhizomes and seeds. They are considered to be invasive in some areas, though dry soil or deep shade will check their spread. To be cautious, grow lily of the valley in containers. All plant parts are poisonous.

Harvesting

Gather fragrant stems for use in cut arrangements as you need them. Stems have a vase life of about 5 days. Dig out wandering plants in early summer, before they can shed mature seed.

Planting and Harvesting Calendar

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Pests which Affect Lily of the Valley

Aphids (General)

Slug

Snail