How to Plant Fairy Lilies (Rain Lilies)

Plant fairy lily bulbs in spring, 2–3 inches deep and 3–4 inches apart, in sun or part shade. They flower in flushes, often right after a good rain.

When to plant
Spring, after your last frost
Depth
2–3 inches
Spacing
3–4 inches apart
Sun
Full sun to part shade
Water
Water deeply, then let the soil dry before the next soaking; the wet-and-dry rhythm brings the most flowers
Soil
Well-drained and rich in organic matter; they also grow in sand or clay

Step by step

  1. Choose a spot in full sun or part shade with well-drained soil, such as the front of a border, along a path, or a pot.
  2. Work some compost into the bed.
  3. Plant the bulbs pointed end up, 2–3 inches deep and 3–4 inches apart, in a group for a fuller patch.
  4. Water well to settle the soil.
  5. Once leaves appear, water deeply and then let the soil dry before you water again. That rhythm brings on flowers.

After bloom

Leave the leaves in place. Colder than zone 7, dig the bulbs in fall before your first frost, let them dry, and store them somewhere dry and frost-free. Replant after your last spring frost. If yours are in a pot, bring the whole pot indoors for winter instead.