AOA Hybrid Lilies: A Guide for Flower Farmers
What are AOA hybrid lilies?
Flower farming is an art that blends science, creativity, and a deep appreciation for nature. Among the many varieties of flowers, AOA hybrid lilies stand out for their exceptional beauty, versatility, and robustness. This blog post is dedicated to helping flower farmers understand what AOA hybrid lilies are, their benefits, and how to successfully cultivate them.
Which types of lilies are used to hybridize AOA lilies?
AOA hybrid lilies are a unique category of lilies created by crossing Asiatic, Oriental, and other types of lilies. This hybridization process combines the best traits of each parent lily, resulting in plants that are not only visually stunning but also hardy and easy to grow. AOA lilies are less available in the marketplace than LA (longiflorum-asiatic) and OT (oriental-trumpet) lilies. It’s easy to confuse AOA lilies with the other categories. The parentage makes them different.
Key Features of AOA Hybrid Lilies
Vibrant Colors and Patterns: AOA hybrid lilies are available in a wide range of colors, from bright yellows and oranges to deep reds and pinks. Some varieties also feature striking bi-colored blooms and intricate patterns.
Fragrance: While Asiatic lilies typically lack fragrance, Oriental lilies are known for their strong scent. AOA hybrids often strike a balance, offering a light, pleasant fragrance that appeals to a wide audience.
Bloom Size and Longevity: These hybrids produce large, showy blooms that can last longer than those of their parent species. This makes them ideal for cut flowers and floral arrangements.
Hardiness and Disease Resistance: AOA lilies are bred for their robust nature, making them resistant to common diseases and adaptable to various growing conditions. They can thrive in different climates and are less prone to pest issues.
Benefits for Flower Farmers
High Market Demand
AOA hybrid lilies are highly sought after in the floral industry due to their stunning appearance and versatility. They are perfect for bouquets, floral arrangements, and garden displays, making them a valuable addition to any flower farm's product lineup.
Extended Bloom Season
These hybrids have an extended bloom period, providing flowers over a longer season compared to many other lily varieties. This ensures a steady supply of blooms for the market. You can achieve an even longer season of flowers by succession planting your lilies weekly.
We grow lilies year round on our farm. During the warmest months, we grow them outside in pots or crates. In the should seasons and winter we use a heated greenhouse our the indoor grow room in the basement of the flower farm’s farmhouse.
Versatility in Use
The vibrant colors and unique patterns of AOA hybrid lilies make them suitable for various uses, from weddings and special events to everyday floral arrangements. Their appealing fragrance and long vase life further enhance their marketability.
Cultivating AOA Hybrid Lilies
Site Selection
AOA lilies prefer well-draining soil and full sun to partial shade. Choose a location that receives at least 6 hours of sunlight daily. Ensure the site is protected from strong winds, which can damage the tall stems. If you are growing indoors, be sure to provide plenty of strong light. We love The Lily Workshop’s detailed program on lily cultivation for specialty cut flower farms. Check it out! They even offer a hands-on On Farm experience if you prefer that kind of learning over their online courses.
Soil Preparation
Drainage: Good drainage is crucial to prevent bulb rot. If your soil is heavy clay, amend it with organic matter such as compost or well-rotted manure.
Soil pH: Aim for a slightly acidic to neutral soil pH (6.0-7.0). Test the soil and adjust the pH if necessary using lime (to raise pH) or sulfur (to lower pH).
You can also use a soilless mix for planting lilies.
Planting
Timing: Plant AOA lily bulbs in the fall or early spring for best results in natural plantings in your garden or field. OR- plant weekly successions for the length of season you’d like to have.
Depth and Spacing: Plant bulbs 4-6 inches deep, with the pointed end facing up. Space them 8-12 inches apart to allow for adequate air circulation and growth.
Watering and Fertilization
Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Water at the base of the plants to avoid wetting the foliage, which can lead to disease.
Fertilization: Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer at planting time. During the growing season, feed the lilies every 4-6 weeks with a high-potassium fertilizer to support strong stems and vibrant blooms.
Staking and Support
AOA lilies can grow tall and produce large, heavy blooms. You may want to add stakes or other supports to prevent the stems from bending or breaking. We like to “corral” our crate grown lilies with bailing twine and stakes.
Pest and Disease Management
Pests: Common pests include aphids, lily beetles, and slugs. Regularly inspect plants and use appropriate insecticides or natural remedies to control infestations.
Diseases: Ensure good air circulation to prevent fungal diseases like botrytis. Avoid overhead watering and remove any diseased plant material promptly.
Harvesting
Timing: Harvest lilies when the buds are fully colored but not yet open. This ensures they will last longer in arrangements.
Technique: Cut the stems at an angle and place them in water immediately. Remove any leaves that will be submerged to prevent rot.
Conclusion
AOA hybrid lilies are a fantastic choice for flower farmers looking to diversify their offerings with stunning, hardy, and marketable blooms. By understanding their unique characteristics and following proper cultivation techniques, you can successfully grow these beautiful hybrids and enjoy the rewards they bring to your farm and your customers.
Happy farming!