Ginger Lily

Water the Ginger Lily when the top inch of the soil is dry. Sandy soil will require more frequent watering than loam or clay-based soils. Be sure to water your Gingers deeply, allowing water to reach the bottom of the container for deep-rooted plants. Soil can dry faster outdoors in windy climates, so keep an eye on it.

Ginger Lily prefers full sun to bright, indirect light areas. It can take short sessions in direct sun, but needs to be acclimated slowly. Gradually increase the amount of light each day. Too much sun can cause sunburn and hardened leaves that curl and shield from the sun. If grown in too little light, the Ginger Lily can become lanky.

The Ginger Lily is happiest in warm temperatures, between 65°-80°F (18° - 27°C). In frost-free climates, it can be planted directly in the ground. In areas prone to light frosts, it can be kept in a container and brought indoors before temperatures fall below 55°F (13°C).

The Ginger Lily prefers higher humidity and temperatures, up to 80%. During the daytime, mist the plant often with tepid water, making sure that the leaves are not too wet. You can also group the container with other tropicals to increase humidity. Keep away from drafts and cold air coming from windows or central heating systems.

Ginger Lilies prefer a potting soil that is rich in organic material. A well-balanced potting soil mix with perlite to improve drainage is ideal. They can also be grown directly in the ground in frost-free climates. Make sure the soil is slightly acidic, with a pH scan from 5.0-6.5.

Fertilize the Ginger Lily every 2 weeks during the growing season with a well-balanced liquid houseplant fertilizer diluted by half. During the rest period, fertilization should be stopped. Avoid fertilizers high in nitrogen, as this could cause the growth of foliage but delay flowering. Do not fertilize in cold or dry weather.

The Ginger Lily can be affected by mealybugs, aphids, and scale, which can cause leaf yellowing or damage. Mealybugs are likely the most common pest, appearing as white, cotton-like tufts. Inspect plants regularly to monitor for bugs. Spray affected plants with a diluted insecticidal soap or neem oil solution. If the problem persists, use a systemic insecticide that contains imidacloprid or acetamiprid.

Ginger Lily plants should be repotted every 2-3 years, or when the plant has become root-bound. The ideal potting soil should be well-draining and high in organic matter. During repotting, you can divide the rhizomes to create more plants. Use a pot that is about 1-2 inches larger than the current size. Allow the soil to dry between watering and fertilize every two weeks during the growing season.

Ginger Lilies typically do not require much pruning, but if the plant becomes too large and top-heavy, it may need to be pruned before it falls over. Prune away any dead, damaged, or diseased leaves or stems. Pruning late in the fall season can help promote blooming in the following year.

Mulching the Ginger Lily in the summer helps to reduce water loss, reduce soil temperatures, suppress weeds, and improve the appearance of the bed. A 2-3 inch layer of mulch works well. Use mulches made of bark, straw, or cocoa beans.

The Ginger Lily can be propagated from the division of rhizomes, or from seed (although typically slow). To propagate from rhizomes, divide the root masses when repotting and replant them in their own containers. To propagate from seed, plant the seeds in moist, lightly fertilized soil. Keep the soil moist and warm and seeds should germinate in 2-3 weeks.

The Ginger Lily can become top-heavy and require support, especially in windy areas. Provide a simple stake driven into the ground. You can also interweave the leaves and stems with twine or garden tape for additional support.

Ginger Lilies have a winter, or rest, period in which the plant will not need much water or fertilizer. The soil should be completely dry before the plant goes dormant, and remain dry until spring, when watering is resumed and new growth appears.

The Ginger Lily is toxic to pets and can cause skin and gastrointestinal irritation. If ingested, contact the vet immediately.