Lily of the Valley

Family: Liliaceae.
Bulb type: Rhizome.
Flowers: Spring (especially good after a cold Winter.)
Size: 10-15cm x spreading clumps.
Planting time: Autumn to August.
Soil: Ideally a moist, moderately rich soil. Add lots of leaf mould.
Position: Deep shade to filtered light.
Depth & spacing: Plant pips 2 cm below the surface & 5cm apart.
Water: During the growing season.
Fertiliser: They love a yearly application of well rotted animal manure or compost over winter. In cold areas cut back tops after frost and fertilise.
Pests/diseases: Snails, slugs.
Cutting: Beautiful scented flowers for posies and sprays.