lily 'Red Velvet'

Grow in well-drained soil enriched with leaf mould or well-rotted organic matter in full sun with the base of the plant in shade. In a container grow in loam based potting compost such as John Innes No 2 with added grit and leaf mould. Water freely and apply a high potash liquid fertiliser every two weeks. Keep just moist in winter

In autumn, once foliage has yellowed, cut back to ground level

Separate offsets after the foliage dies down

Aphids, lily beetle, slugs, thrips, leatherjackets, rabbits and voles may be a problem

Grey moulds and other fungal problems can infect lilies either below or above ground; see also lily diseases