Lilyturf Liriope muscari 'Big Blue'

Water

The Lilyturf should be watered generously during its growing season, which is spring and summer, ensuring the soil is kept moist but not waterlogged. During the fall and winter, reduce watering to prevent soggy soil, allowing the top inch of soil to dry out between waterings. It's recommended to water the plant with approximately 1 gallon of water every week during the active growth period, adjusting this amount during periods of rainfall or drought. In winter, water sparingly, enough to prevent the soil from completely drying out, which may amount to 1 gallon every two to three weeks depending on the humidity and temperature of your environment.

Light

Lilyturf thrives best in partial to full shade conditions, making it an excellent choice for shaded areas where other plants might struggle. The ideal spot for this plant is under the dappled light of a tree canopy or on the north side of a building. Avoid placing it in direct, harsh sunlight as it can scorch the foliage and compromise the plant's health.

Temperature

Lilyturf is hardy and can tolerate a broad range of temperatures, typically surviving winter lows down to 10 degrees Fahrenheit and summer highs up to 95 degrees Fahrenheit. However, the ideal temperature range for this plant is between 60 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit, which promotes robust growth and flowering. Ensure that the plant is not subjected to sudden temperature fluctuations, which could cause stress and potential damage.

Pruning

Lilyturf benefits from annual pruning to remove old foliage and encourage fresh, vibrant growth. The best time to prune is in late winter or early spring before new growth starts. Cut back the foliage to within a few inches of the base using sharp shears or a mower set at a high cutting height. Prune once a year, and optionally, remove spent flower spikes after blooming to maintain a tidy appearance and promote new flowers the following season.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

Lilyturf (Liriope muscari 'Big Blue') thrives in well-draining soil rich in organic matter with a slightly acidic to neutral pH of 5.5 to 7.0. A soil mix containing peat moss, compost, and perlite or sand is ideal to maintain adequate moisture while preventing waterlogging.

Repotting

Lilyturf typically does not require frequent repotting as it tolerates being slightly root-bound. Repotting every 2-3 years or when the plant has clearly outgrown its container will suffice.

Humidity & Misting

Lilyturf is versatile and can tolerate a wide range of humidity levels; however, it prefers moderate humidity. Normal indoor humidity levels are generally suitable for its growth without the need for special humidity adjustments.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Place Lilyturf in bright, indirect light and water moderately.

• Outdoor

  Plant Lilyturf in part-shade to full sun with well-draining soil.

• Hardiness zone

  5-10 USDA

Life cycle

Liriope muscari 'Big Blue', commonly known as Lilyturf or Big Blue Liriope, begins its life as a seed, which, once sown, germinates in favorable conditions of warmth and moisture, developing into a seedling with a small rosette of leaves. The seedling grows through vegetative growth into a mature clump-forming perennial, with grass-like foliage and dense, tufted growth habit. During its growing season in spring and summer, the plant produces spikes of small, purple, lavender, or white flowers that rise above the foliage, attracting pollinators such as bees. Following flowering, which typically occurs from late summer to fall, the plant may produce berry-like fruits that contain seeds, which can disperse to propagate new plants. Lilyturf is also capable of vegetative reproduction through its rhizomatous root system, spreading to form wider colonies over time. After several years, older clumps may become crowded and can be divided in early spring or fall to rejuvenate the plant and encourage new growth.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Spring-Fall

• The Liriope muscari 'Big Blue', commonly known as Big Blue Lilyturf, is ideally propagated by division. The best time for dividing Big Blue Lilyturf is in the early spring before new growth begins or in the late fall after the plant has finished flowering. To propagate by division, you should gently dig up an established clump of Lilyturf and shake or wash off the soil to reveal the root system. Using your hands or a sharp knife, divide the clump into smaller sections, ensuring that each section has a good amount of roots and several leaves or growing points. These divisions can then be replanted immediately at the same depth they were growing before, spaced about 12 inches (approximately 30 centimeters) apart to allow for spreading. Water the newly transplanted divisions well to help establish them. This method of propagation is straightforward and helps to rejuvenate older clumps that may have become woody or less vigorous with age.