Starting lily of the valley - Ask Extension
Tried twice to start them by planting the whole plants. Haven’t tested soil, but I think it’s pretty normal. Is seed a better way to establish t...
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Starting lily of the valley #914654
Asked August 19, 2025, 8:11 PM EDT
Tried twice to start them by planting the whole plants. Haven’t tested soil, but I think it’s pretty normal. Is seed a better way to establish them? Thank you.
Hennepin County Minnesota
Expert Response
Plant Lily of the Valley in preferably partial shade with moist, well-drained soil in late fall or early spring. Soak underground stems before planting, space them about 4-6 inches apart, and water regularly. Mulch and leave the foliage after blooming. Divide every few years to keep plants healthy, For more information on growing lily of the valley, see
http://www.gardening.cornell.edu/homegardening/scene2835.html
http://www.gardening.cornell.edu/homegardening/scene2835.html
What kind of mulch would you recommend…wood chips?
Sent from my iPhone
Sent from my iPhone
On Aug 20, 2025, at 4:48 PM, Ask Extension wrote:
Wood chips are a good choice. You could also use dried leaves or straw or cocoa hulls. Here is some information on using mulch - https://extension.umn.edu/news/mulching-101-secret-healthy-and-happy-garden
