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| Image credit - http://seaforth-garden.blogspot.co.uk/ |
Sow the seeds of the giant Himalayan lily as soon as they ripen, usually in October. Using a large modular seed tray (the modules are large, the seed tray is the standard size), fill with a good quality compost such as John Innes 'Seed and Cutting'. Place one seed per module and cover with 1/4 inch of horticultural grit or vermiculite.
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| Image credit - http://florawonder.blogspot.co.uk/ |
After 2-3 weeks, place the tray in a refrigerator (not freezer) for 3-6 weeks, after which return to the recommended germination temperature. Keep the compost moist at all times, but not waterlogged.
When the seedlings are large enough to handle, and well rooted in the module, they can be gently lifted out and planted individually into 3 inch pots containing a good quality, free-draining compost. Once potted they can be put back into the cold frame. The following spring they can then be planted directly into a sheltered, dappled or partially shaded nursery bed outdoors. Leave a 3ft gap between the plants for growing room.
This is the part that requires some patience. Grow on for three or four years before transplanting to their permanent flowering site. Plants raised from seeds can take up to five years, sometimes more, to reach flowering size.
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