- This is what the seeds of lily of the valley look like
- When are the seeds ripe?
- Propagating lilies of the valley by seed or root division?
- Prevent lily of the valley from spreading
If they are not prevented by cutting off the inflorescences, lilies of the valley form red berries, each of which contains up to five seeds. The seeds are usually dispersed by birds. You can also simply scatter the berries to grow new lilies of the valley.
The seeds of the lily of the valley hide in the poisonous, red berries
This is what the seeds of lily of the valley look like
- One to five seeds per berry
- yellow to light brown color
- approx. 3 to 4 millimeters in length
- spherical pear shape
- slightly angular
The seeds of the lily of the valley have a germination inhibition, which must be overcome by a cold phase. Lily of the valley is therefore sown outdoors in autumn.
If you want to grow lily of the valley in a pot, put the seeds in the fridge for a few weeks to stratify them.
When are the seeds ripe?
The seeds are ripe when the berries have turned a bright red color. This is usually the case from August.
Caution: The berries are very poisonous and must not be eaten by children or pets.
Propagating lilies of the valley by seed or root division?
You can propagate lilies of the valley from seeds. However, it is easier if you dig up and divide the rhizomes, i.e. the roots.
Sown lilies of the valley take a long time to form sufficiently thick tubers. Years can pass before the first flowering.
Prevent lily of the valley from spreading
Unfortunately, the pretty spring flower with its intense scent can also become a nuisance. It spreads rapidly via the seed and underground rhizomes and can be found throughout the garden. Once the flower has settled in, it is almost impossible to remove it from the garden.
To prevent the lily of the valley from spreading in a controlled manner, cut off faded inflorescences immediately so that no berries and thus no seeds develop.
Spreading via rhizomes can be prevented by creating a rhizome barrier before planting. If you grow lilies of the valley in pots or tubs, the flowers cannot spread.
tips
Lily of the valley flowers do not produce nectar, but rather a succulent tissue. Pollination is mostly done by bees. However, the spring flower can also develop berries with seeds through self-pollination.