Toad lilies are very delicate shade plants. If you would also like to have toad lilies in your garden, then it is best to follow our tips for caring for the plants.
Toad lily looks like an orchid
Because the toad lily looks very similar to an orchid, it is popularly known as the garden orchid. This plant is particularly impressive because of its long flowering period, from summer - starting between June and August depending on the variety - to the first frosty days in October. The flowers are also very suitable for keeping in a vase.
Toad lilies - 5 tips for care
Tip 1 - Choice of location
The garden orchid, also known as the tiger star, thrives in the shade and partial shade if it is planted in soil that is as moist as possible and contains humus - gladly also directly in front of trees. However, there should be no waterlogging at the selected location.
On average, it then achieves a growth height of up to 80 centimeters. With a really optimal choice of location, even a height of up to 150 centimeters. The mostly dotted flowers in yellow, violet, burgundy, blue, etc. that grow in large numbers per perennial can therefore also be cut for the room vase without any problems.
Tip 2 - Planting
Toad lilies are usually planted in spring, at a distance of 30 to 50 centimetres. You should make sure that you plant the entire root in the ground.
Tip 3 - Fertilize
Over the course of a year they will need fertilizing twice or three times, and you can also work compost into the soil. In this way you promote a strong flowering. In addition, you strengthen the plants sufficiently for the winter.
Tip 4 - Care in winter/pruning
Toad lilies are generally hardy down to -20 degrees, but like roses they need to be well protected. To do this, pile up the plant stock with leaves, for example, or cover the plant itself with brushwood. It should also not be pruned back especially for the winter (just remove the faded flower stalks), which is why the actual pruning is only recommended in spring.
Tip 5 - Propagating
The toad lilycan easily be propagated by dividing the canes in spring. Above all, separate the fresh shoots from the mother stock and replant them in another location. The new location should be sufficiently fertilized in advance. To do this, for example, work compost into the soil two to three weeks in advance and allow it to settle slightly.