When Should Asian Lilies Be Pruned In The Fall?

Lilies are a popular and healthy plant that can be cut back when they stop blooming. This process encourages new growth and helps maintain the plant’s health. To do this, cut back the foliage in late fall, removing the leaves at the base with a sharp knife or shears to prevent disease and pests from overwintering on the plant. It is essential to prune and deadhead Asiatic lilies during the growing season to keep them blooming and then cut them back in fall for their winter dormancy.

Principling involves inspecting the plant, removing dead or damaged stems, cutting back after flowering, and disposing of pruned material. As the bloom season wanes, Asiatic lilies will begin to prepare for their rest. In the fall, after the foliage has withered, cut it back and prepare the bulbs for winter. If you live in a climate with harsh conditions, follow these steps:

1. Choose plants hardy for your zone. Asiatic lilies are generally hardy plants but need a cool period for overwintering. For instance, Asiatic lilies don’t require pruning. When their stems and foliage are green, leave them on the plant and allow the foliage to die back naturally in winter. When cutting flowers for bouquets, leave at least one-third of the stem on the plant.

Lush, vibrant lilies from bulbs, including Asiatic, Oriental, Tiger, and Trumpet lilies, can stick up as straight as driveways. They should be cut back after the first frost of fall has passed but before the ground is frozen. A simple rule of thumb is to cut no more than the top third of the stem. Once the lilies have finished flowering, cut the flower head off and leave the leaves and stem to die back naturally until it turns brown and hollow.