The journey of easter lilies from bulb to bloom

By Scout Nelson

Easter lilies, those elegant symbols of the holiday, embark on a remarkable journey before adorning homes each spring. Originating from Japan's southern islands, these trumpet-shaped flowers were brought to the U.S. by Louis Houghton in 1919, who distributed them in Oregon.

With the halt of Japanese exports during World War II, American enthusiasts began domestic cultivation efforts. It was the uniquely conducive conditions of a coastal area on the Oregon-California border—characterized by its mild climate, ample rainfall, and rich soils—that led to this region producing 99% of North America's Easter lily bulbs.

The production of an Easter lily bulb ready for sale is a painstaking three-year process. It starts with planting a scale from the mother bulb, followed by a series of replanting and careful removal of any flower buds to conserve the bulb's energy.

Once mature, these bulbs undergo a meticulous cleaning and sorting process before being dispatched to greenhouses nationwide, where they undergo a 23-week preparation schedule to ensure they bloom right in time for Easter.

Retail and wholesale greenhouses engage in a detailed cultivation schedule that includes a six-week cold treatment to induce blooming. The ideal Easter lily plant for purchase should have just a couple of open flowers and be free from any yellowing leaves.

Proper care, including the removal of the plant's decorative foil and avoiding waterlogged conditions, is crucial for the health of the plant and the longevity of its flowers.

Understanding the effort and time invested in bringing an Easter lily to bloom, from a small bulb to a splendid flower, enriches the appreciation for these symbols of purity and renewal that grace Easter celebrations.

This holiday, as you admire an Easter lily, remember the journey it has undergone—a true testament to the dedication of growers and the wonder of nature.

Photo Credit -gettyimages-karen-massier