Big Blue Lily Turf: A Comprehensive Guide to Growing and Caring for This Beautiful Plant

Table of Contents

The Basics of Big Blue Lily Turf

Big blue lily turf (Liriope muscari) is a perennial evergreen plant that is native to East Asia. It is also known as lilyturf or monkey grass. This plant is a member of the Asparagaceae family and is closely related to lilies.

Description

Big blue lily turf has long, narrow leaves that grow in clumps. The leaves are dark green in color and have a shiny appearance. The plant produces tall spikes of small, bell-shaped flowers in late summer.

Growth Habit

Big blue lily turf is a slow-growing plant that can reach a height of 12-18 inches and a spread of 24-36 inches. It prefers partial to full shade and well-drained soil.

Planting Big Blue Lily Turf

When to Plant

The best time to plant big blue lily turf is in the spring or fall when the soil is moist and temperatures are cool. Avoid planting during the hot summer months as the plant may struggle to establish itself.

Where to Plant

Big blue lily turf is a great choice for planting in shady areas such as under trees or along walkways. It also does well in containers, making it a good option for patios or balconies.

How to Plant

To plant big blue lily turf, dig a hole that is twice as wide and deep as the root ball. Place the plant in the hole and backfill with soil, making sure to tamp down firmly. Water the plant thoroughly after planting.

Caring for Big Blue Lily Turf

Watering

Big blue lily turf prefers moist but well-drained soil. Water the plant deeply once a week during dry spells, making sure not to overwater.

Fertilizing

Fertilize big blue lily turf once a year in the spring with a slow-release fertilizer. Avoid using high-nitrogen fertilizers as they can damage the roots of the plant.

Pruning

Big blue lily turf does not require regular pruning. However, you may want to remove any dead or damaged leaves in the spring to promote new growth.

Pests and Diseases

Big blue lily turf is relatively pest and disease-resistant. However, it can be susceptible to root rot if planted in poorly-drained soil.

Uses for Big Blue Lily Turf

Groundcover

Big blue lily turf makes an excellent groundcover in shady areas where grass may not grow well. It also helps to prevent erosion on slopes.

Border Plant

Big blue lily turf can be used as a border plant along walkways or garden beds. Its narrow leaves and low height make it a great choice for this purpose.

Container Plant

Big blue lily turf does well in containers, making it a good option for patios or balconies. Its evergreen foliage adds a touch of greenery to any space.

FAQs

Q: Is big blue lily turf deer resistant?

A: Yes, big blue lily turf is deer resistant.

Q: How often should I water my big blue lily turf?

A: Big blue lily turf prefers moist but well-drained soil. Water deeply once a week during dry spells.

Q: Can I grow big blue lily turf in full sun?

A: Big blue lily turf prefers partial to full shade. It may struggle if planted in full sun.

Q: Does big blue lily turf attract pollinators?

A: Yes, big blue lily turf produces small, bell-shaped flowers that attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies.

Q: How do I propagate big blue lily turf?

A: Big blue lily turf can be propagated by dividing the clumps in the spring or fall. Dig up the clump and carefully separate it into smaller pieces, making sure each piece has roots attached.