How to plant Liriope

Liriope (Lilyturf) is a plant for all season, making useful evergreen ground cover for those shaded corners, even in drier soil. Rabbit-proof, grassy foliage forms neat clumps, decorated with short flower spikes in late summer and autumn. The glossy, purple-black berries that follow bring extra seasonal interest. Undemanding and low maintenance, it provides year-round colour for the front of borders, or makes a great addition to patio containers.

How to plant

  • Plant Liriope in the spring between February and May, ideally within a week of delivery.
  • Soak the roots in water for 3-6 hours prior to planting. Pot into temporary 2 litre (15-20cm diameter) pots, using a good quality multi-purpose compost.
  • Plant so that the roots are fully submerged and the buds/crown is level with the soil surface, any top growth (shoots/leaves) should be exposed above the soil surface.
  • Grow them on in a sheltered spot outside. They can be transplanted into borders in a suitable location after 2-4 months, or once growth is established and the plant easily comes out of the pot with the soil held intact by the roots.
  • Choose a position in sun or light shade where it will receive some sun throughout the day as this promotes flowering. In more shaded positions, it will grow foliage but can be shy to bloom.
  • This perennial is fully hardy and do not require winter protection.
  • Liriope prefers a moist, fertile well drained soil but once established it can cope well with periods of dry weather.
  • Water-in after planting and keep hydrated when in growth, particularly during the first year.

Aftercare

  • Liriope will start to produce new growth in spring. Flowers follow in late summer and early autumn.
  • After flowering, leave the stems intact until spring to enjoy a display of berries.
  • Liriope is evergreen, retaining its foliage throughout the winter months. Remove any individual damaged or dying leaves in spring to make way for new growth. Old flowers stems can also be trimmed away at the same time.