Lycoris Radiata Flower Bulbs

Planting

Lycoris are long-lived perennial bulbs that can return and multiply for many years, so choosing the right planting location from the start is well worth it. Fall is an ideal time to plant Lycoris bulbs because the cooler weather allows roots to begin establishing before winter. Choose a sunny, well-drained location and give the bulbs room to naturalize over time. Lycoris may take a season to become fully established, but once settled they reward you with dramatic flower stalks and colorful late-season blooms year after year.

When: Fall is ideal, generally 4-6 weeks before the ground freezes. Plant as soon as possible after receiving your bulbs.

Light: Full sun to partial shade. At least 6 hours of sunlight encourages the strongest growth and best flowering, although light afternoon shade can be helpful in warmer climates.

Soil: Loose, fertile, well-drained garden soil amended with compost if needed. Avoid areas that stay wet or soggy, especially during periods when the bulbs are dormant.

How deep: Plant bulbs with the pointed end facing upward, positioning the neck of the bulb near the soil surface. Cover with approximately 2-3" of soil, depending on bulb size and growing conditions.

Spacing: 6-8" between bulbs to allow room for mature growth and natural multiplication over time.

Tip: Dig a planting hole deep enough to loosen the soil beneath the bulb, position the bulb upright and gently backfill with soil. Water thoroughly after planting to settle the soil and encourage root development.

Watering & Fertilization

Lycoris appreciate consistent moisture while their roots and foliage are actively growing, but they do not like sitting in wet soil. Once established, they are relatively low maintenance and can tolerate periods of dry weather, particularly while dormant. They are not heavy feeders either, so a light application of fertilizer is generally all they need. Well-drained soil, moderate moisture and allowing the natural growth cycle to occur will help keep Lycoris healthy and flowering for years.

Water: Water thoroughly after planting and keep the soil lightly moist while roots become established. During active growth, provide about 1" of water per week during dry periods. Reduce watering once foliage naturally dies back.

Mulch: Apply 1-2" of mulch after the ground begins to cool to help protect the bulbs and maintain even soil moisture. Avoid piling mulch directly over the bulb necks.

Fertilize: Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer or a light layer of compost when foliage is actively growing. Avoid excessive nitrogen, which can encourage leafy growth at the expense of flowers.

Maintenance: Allow foliage to remain in place until it naturally yellows and dies back so it can replenish the bulbs for future blooms. Depending on the variety, foliage may appear in fall or spring before disappearing ahead of the flower stalks. Lycoris prefer to remain undisturbed and will often form increasingly impressive colonies over time.