Why can't I grow Lily of the Valley wherever I live?

Perhaps you plant it too deeply. It is best growing in shade.

Tried that, and very specifically this time in Cumbria. But thanks for your reply.

PM me with an address and we can seed you live/growing plants. They need shade a dryish, light soil... it is a weed in our garden which we regularly dig up and give away and it is STILL there!

Take heart Leone, I also have trouble getting it to establish. I follow all the advice but i guess it hasnt read the books :o)

Hi Leone, There is a better variety of Convallaria than the ordinary C. Majalis. There is the C Majalis 'Fortin's Giant'. It is referred to as "a robust and spectacular form", height 10", flowers May to June. Prefers humus rich loam in shade, but will survive in almost any situation. Needs to establish well first before it will flower. Perhaps needs a year or two. Supplied by Broadleigh Gardens, but I don't know who else. However, you would be too late now for their spring despatch. I hope this information is of some help. With best wishes, JONATHAN H.

Hi Leone, I have just found out, C Majalis has an AGM on it, but the Majalis 'Fortin's Giant' is described as a "much better doer". Better than an AGM! Can't be bad. Happy with fairly dry soils, but probably needs a bit of watering to help it to establish. Is a 'woodlander', so some leaf compost with it will most likely help it. Humus may be an important key. Kindest regards, JONATHAN H.

Lily of the Valley left in the post yesterday for you

Thanks to all of you for your help and suggestions, and particularly to Moon grower who sent me some of her plants; they arrived today. I will plant them in several different places tomorrow, as I have varying conditions in my gardens, and then see what occurs next year! Just seems strange that I have been unsuccessful in all three places where I have tried: Surrey, Hertfordshire and Cumbria, so thought it might be something spooky!

Good luck!