Natal Lily

Natal Lilies need to be watered regularly to keep the soil from becoming too dry. It is best to give them a light watering when the topsoil is dry to the touch. Water the plant until the excess starts to drip out of the bottom of the pot. It is important to make sure the pot does not sit in water as this can cause the roots to rot.

Natal Lilies prefer bright, indirect sunlight and will become leggy if they are not kept in the right amount of light. These plants do well in a western or south-facing window, so they get light throughout the day. Too much direct sunlight will cause the leaves to turn yellow. If natural light is not available, they can also grow well under fluorescent or LED lighting.

Natal Lilies prefer temperatures between 60-75°F (16-24°C). These plants cannot tolerate drastic changes in temperature so avoid drafts, fans, or placing them near a heat source. It is important to keep the plants away from cold or drafts as this will cause the leaves to turn brown and drop off.

The Natal Lily like to be kept in moderately humid conditions. This means that the plants should be kept away from air conditioning and heating vents. To increase the humidity in the room, try placing a humidity tray or a humidifier nearby.

Natal Lilies prefer a well-draining potting mix that is high in organic matter. It is important to ensure that the mix does not contain any chemical fertilizers as this can burn the roots. Select a soil with a pH between 5-7 for best results.

Fertilize the Natal Lily during spring and summer, when the plant is actively growing. Select a balanced fertilizer that is diluted to half strength and apply every two weeks. Discontinue fertilizing during the winter rest period to allow the plant to focus on growth in the spring.

Natal Lilies can become infested with a range of pests including aphids, mealybugs, and spider mites. If you start to notice any of these pests, it is important to act quickly to prevent the infestation from spreading to other plants. The most effective way to get rid of these pests is to use an insecticidal soap or neem oil solution. Spray the solution onto the affected areas and repeat as necessary to rid the plant of the intruders.

These plants should be repotted only when they become rootbound in the existing pot. It is best to repot them during the spring when they are actively growing. When repotting select a pot that is slightly larger than the previous one. Use a well-draining potting soil and be sure to add an extra drainage layer at the bottom.

Pruning is not necessary for Natal Lilies, but it can be done to improve the appearance of the plant. Prune any dead or dying leaves and lightly trim the foliage to keep the plant neat and tidy. Use sharp pruning shears so that you do not accidentally damage the stems.

Mulching is not necessary for Natal Lilies, but it can be beneficial. If you decide to mulch, opt for a cork mulch as it is a lightweight and non-toxic substitute as it is biodegradable. Place the cork mulch around the base of the plant, and its organic material will help to keep the soil moist and encourages better aeration.

Natal Lilies can be propagated through division of the root clump or from seed. If dividing the root clump make sure to have at least three growing points before planting. To propagate via seed, sow the seeds directly into the soil in the spring. Keep the soil moist and warm for best results.

Natal Lilies have thin and weak stems so they benefit from having a support structure. This can be anything from a stake or trellis to a moss pole. The support will help to keep the plant upright and add to its aesthetic.

These plants benefit from a winter rest period as they become dormant during this time. During this period, reduce the frequency of watering and allow the potting mix to dry out slightly before watering again. Withholding water will help to reduce the risk of root rot and encourage better blooming in the spring.

The Natal Lily is not toxic to cats and dogs, so it is safe to have in your home.