Lily care tips

The visual appeal of lilies lies in their large, expressive blooms and wide color range, including white, pink, orange, yellow, and bi-color varieties. From Asiatic to Oriental and LA-hybrids, each type offers specific characteristics in fragrance, bud size, and opening behavior. Innovations such as pollen-free varieties and double-flowered types further expand their application, especially in weddings and premium designs.

Originating from temperate regions in the Northern Hemisphere, lilies require precise post-harvest handling to maintain quality throughout the chain. Their relatively long vase life and transport resilience are strong advantages, but only when supported by the right treatment protocols. Without proper care, issues such as leaf yellowing, bud abortion, and reduced opening can quickly impact their commercial value.

🔎 Challenges: Bud opening, leaf yellowing and ethylene sensitivity

Lilies present several well-known post-harvest challenges that directly affect quality and vase life. One of the primary issues is leaf yellowing, especially after cold storage or transport. This reduces visual appeal and marketability, particularly in retail environments.

Another critical challenge is incomplete or uneven bud opening. If water uptake is compromised or if flowers are not properly conditioned, buds may fail to open fully, leading to customer dissatisfaction and increased waste. Additionally, lilies are sensitive to ethylene, which can cause premature aging, bud drop, and flower abortion—especially in mixed storage or transport conditions.

Microbial contamination in the vase solution can further restrict water uptake, accelerating deterioration. Combined, these factors can lead to significant losses across the chain, from grower to consumer.

To maintain consistent quality and reduce waste, a structured approach with targeted post-harvest solutions is essential.

✅ Best Practices & Product Advice per Phase

For growers

High-quality lilies start with effective post-harvest treatment immediately after harvest. Rapid hydration, protection against ethylene, and prevention of leaf yellowing are key to ensuring strong performance further down the chain.

Recommended product – Grower phase
Chrysal AVB / BVB / SVB / Largo
These solutions support optimal hydration, reduce leaf yellowing, protect against ethylene damage, and promote uniform bud development.

Key actions

• Treat flowers immediately after harvest with the correct conditioning solution
• Ensure rapid cooling to 2–5°C
• Prevent ethylene exposure during storage and transport
• Maintain strict hygiene in processing areas

For wholesale

During transport and storage, maintaining flower quality is critical. Wholesalers play a key role in preserving hydration, preventing contamination, and ensuring consistent bud development.

Recommended products – Wholesale phase
Chrysal Professional 2 / Chrysal CVBN tablets
These solutions maintain water quality, support controlled opening, and reduce bacterial growth during storage and distribution.

Key actions

• Store at consistent low temperatures (2–5°C)
• Use clean buckets and fresh solution
• Recut stems before placing in solution

For florists

Florists need lilies that open reliably while maintaining shelf life. Controlled development and clean presentation are essential for both sales and customer satisfaction.

Recommended products – Florist phase
Chrysal Professional 2 (Bag-in-Box)
Provides the right balance of nutrients to support gradual opening while extending vase life and keeping leaves green.

Key actions

• Always use clean tools and buckets
• Remove excess foliage below water level
• Recut stems before placing in solution
• Inform customers about proper home care

For consumers (at home)

At home, the focus is on maximizing vase life and ensuring full bud opening. Proper care significantly enhances the consumer experience and perceived value.

Recommended products – Consumer phase
Chrysal Universal flower food (Recyclable / Paper sachets)
Supports full bud opening, maintains color intensity, and extends vase life significantly compared to water alone.

Care tips for consumers

• Use flower food in clean water immediately
• Cut stems 2–3 cm with a sharp knife
• Remove leaves below water level
• Keep away from direct sunlight and heat sources
• Avoid placing near ripening fruit (ethylene source)