Lillies of the Valley

[Miss Inquiry]

When do Lillies of the Valley usually flower and smell thier best? When is best to plant them?

[Thunderbird+]

Hi there, Lily of the valley ( convallaria) flower in the spring in april and may, I would imagine that they will smell their best when the flowers are fully open.
They grow best in semi shade in moist soil that mimicks their woodland origins.
I think October is the best month to plant them but if you see them offered for sale now, it may still be worth a try but keep them well watered. they can easily be propagated from thined out root runners.
P.s You might like to know that they are listed as poisonous to dog's. Good Luck Tbird+

[Miss Inquiry]

Thanks so much Tbird, my 89 year old granny was telling me yesterday she wanted to hold a bouquet of lillies of the valley for her wedding 70 years ago, and her and my grandad couldn't find a bunch in July, I wanted to surprise them and take a bunch to them next time I see them at the end of April, hopefully they will be readily avalible. Really appreciate your help. x

[Thunderbird+]

That's a lovely thought M.I. and a nice thing to do !
I wish you all the best and that go's for your Granny and grandad too. Tbird+

[lafrancaise]

Hi Miss Inquiry, as spring is ahead of time this year the lily of the valley will probably be in flower by end of April. In France, we have Lily of the Valley day on 1st May, so if Spring's a bit late they're forced by moving them into the sun, just a thought if a problem arises. (I wanted lilyof the valley in my wediing bouquet in August so had to settle for artificial!)

[candygirl6]

may
pretty sure
or april
but may more often