toad lily

Toad lilies require moist, yet well-drained soil. Water your toad lilies regularly and deeply, especially during dry periods. Aim to keep their soil lightly moist at all times. It should be moist, but not soggy; if the soil is soggy, your plant will quickly suffer from root rot. Water toad lilies at least once per week but reduce watering in the winter when the plant is dormant. Once a week, or every other week in winter, provide about 1 inch of water—enough to moisten the entire root ball. Avoid splashing water on the leaves as this can lead to rot and disease.

Toad lilies (Tricyrtis formosana 'Gates of Heaven') do best in partial to full shade, or up to 4 hours of direct sunlight per day. Direct sun should only be in the morning and/or late afternoon, with the hottest hours of the day avoided. The amount of sun and shade should be closely monitored to ensure adequate health and blooming for this plant species.

Toad lilies should be pruned in late fall or early spring, before the new growth begins. Prune stems back to healthy foliage or to the ground to help with air circulation and reduce any overcrowding. Cut away stem tips with thick or small clusters of foliage to encourage branching and fuller growth. Remove basal shoots (low-growing stems coming from the base of the plant). Removing old leaves and flowers that have already bloomed will encourage the plant to form new buds.