Is it too late to plant Lily of the Valley now in mid May? I've recently moved and am just starting to plant a bed in my very shaded yard. I also recently found out that Lily of the Valley grows well in shade, and I really like these flowers, just didn't know the name of them. One other question: do you think Lily of the Valley will grow well in the same bed as Coleus? Thanks so very much for your help.
These are very resilient plants (and can even become invasive if not kept contained), so you can still plant them now. They will grow with coleus and other woodland or shade plants. Here is more information: https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/bulbs/lily-of-the-valley/growing-lily-of-the-valley.htm
The leaves came in nicely this year, but none of the plants are flowering.
This article has general information: https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/bulbs/lily-of-the-valley/growing-lily-of-the-valley.htm
Apparently some varieties do most of their flowering every other year. Some people have found LOV does better in acid soil. Also, too much nitrogen can cause plants to grow leaves but not flowers, so hold of on the fertilizer, if you're using that.
I have a mature wisteria tree that has bloomed beautifully for the past 8 years. Two years ago, I planted some lily of the valley under it and they bloomed very nicely this year. The wisteria, however, is not doing well. The only thing different about this year is the lily of the valley. I have checked under the bark of the tree and there is some green there, so I don't think the plant is dead. However, the buds on the tree are barely opening--only a hint of purple on some of the buds. Is the lily of the valley harming the wisteria, do you think? It may be too late for any real lush blooms this year, but we really hate to lose the tree. Do you have any suggestions? Thank you.
I have planted some lily of the valley pips in outdoor pots in April. They started to come up but now seem to be dying down. Should I still be watering them or should they die down to come up next year.
Lily of the Valley flowering lasts only 3 - 4 weeks. However, the leaves should remain green until late summer or early fall. Since your plants are in a pot, you need to be especially careful of the watering. This article has information on that: https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/special/containers/container-plant-watering.htm
What fertilizer should I use to enhance blooms on my Lily of the valley? Please recommend a brand name.
Generally Lily of the Valley do not need a lot of care, but if your soil conditions and your plants need a little boost you can use an all purpose-slow release fertilizer.
Spread over the soil and around the lily pips after they have finished blooming this spring or summer. Rake it into the soil and water lightly.
Do not apply directly onto the plants. You can reapply in the fall mixed into compost. This will help condition your soil.
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/bulbs/lily-of-the-valley/growing-lily-of-the-valley.htm
I've had a circle of lily of the valley around a tree for over 20 yrs. This year due to a sudden death - the hated cheeping charlie weed was not treated in the fall or spring so now it has completely invaded this area. Can I use the weed killer w/dicamba on both the lilies and weed? Will that type of weed killer affect the ferns/hostas in the area? Or should I mow it all and apply newspaper down? Also have it in the grass.
Creeping Charlie can be very difficult to get rid of.
It is best to pull the plant from the flower bed or as you mentioned smothering technique can be applied.
Here is a link with more information.
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/plant-problems/weeds/kill-creeping-charlie.htm
I live in southwestern Pennsylvania and I would like to know when the best time is to plant lily of the valleys outside? Also, do they spread? Does the fragrance attract bees? Where do I buy them?
You should plant Lily of the Valley in the fall in most cases.
You can plant during the summer months and still have success, I transplanted several plants last summer that were gifted to me and had many flowers this fall.
Water well to get them established no matter when you plant them.
They will spread and fill areas in nicely.
If your local garden center does not carry plants try ordering them online.
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/bulbs/lily-of-the-valley/growing-lily-of-the-valley.htm