From a reader:
We have several large lilies in pots, and was wondering if now was the time to transplant them in the yard? If so, do you divide them now, or leave in a bunch? If you divide them, how do you go about doing so? Do you cut the stalks down to ground level when replanting, or leave as is? One plant has several stalks in this pot, approximately 30" tall, and the main stalk is about 50" tall. Do we take all the dirt off and divide by the stalks, or by the bulbs? Do they need mulching for the winter? Thanks for your help.
Lilies
You keep referring to them in the pot. I am assuming you bought them as potted plants. If so there is probably 3 or 5 bulbs in the pot.
These are the steps.
1. Knock the plant out of the pot
2. Separate the bulbs. There may be some bigger ones and smaller ones. Separate into clumps in this case.
3. Replant about 6 to 8 inches apart
4. Cut stems back 1/2 to 1/3. This will help mark the location they were planted till spring.
5. Plant 4 to 6 inches deep depending on soil type. The more clay and poorer drained the shallower.
As a rule of thumb divide lilies when the foliage yellows in the fall or before growth begins in the spring. (If you know where they are.)
Let me know if you have follow up questions.
Dennis - Johnson County Extension