LA hybrid lilies are crosses between Asiatic and Easter Lilies (L. longiflorum x asiaticum). This wonderful mix takes the best of both worlds, featuring tall hardy stems and large long-lasting blooms (though fewer blooms per stem than Asiatic Lilies). In addition to a delightful light scent, these beauties also boast a longer vase life than Asiatic Lilies. Available in a wide variety of unique colors, typically there are 3-10 flowers per stem depending on species and cultivar. LA Hybrid Lilies can be artfully arranged with other flowers or create an absolutely stunning display all by themselves. Following a few simple care and handling tips, LA Hybrid Lilies will perform extremely well and add magnificent flair to your design!
Problems & Solutions
Problem:
Ethylene Sensitivity
Solution:
Exposure to ethylene can cause flower bud abscission, especially smaller buds to abort all together. For best protection, use STS at farm level such as FloraLife® EthylGuard* or EthylBloc™ products during transport and storage.
Problem:
Botrytis Sensitivity
Solution:
Flower buds can be infected with Botrytis. Do not over pack buckets with bunches to allow enough breathing room between stems. Also, respect the cold chain and avoid temperature fluctuations. Do not get water on or handle the flowers by their blooms.
Problem:
Prone to Physical/Mechanical Damage
Solution:
LA Lilies should be harvested when the first bud in the stem starts to show color but should not be open. Stems are soft so foliage and buds tend to bruise easily. For best results when packing, be sure bunches are securely fastened in the box but do not pull strap too tight.
Problem:
Leaf Yellowing
Solution:
For premature leaf yellowing, use an anti-yellowing treatment at farm level after harvest such as FloraLife® Bulb 100* or Lily specific flower food.
Problem:
Pollen/Staining
Solution:
Pollen sheds will stain whatever they touch. Remove the yellow anthers as soon as the bloom opens to prevent pollen from staining.
Need to Know: LA Lilies Helpful Hints
Properly Mixed Flower Food: The Benefits
- Helps blooms fully develop and open.
- Helps LA Lilies stay hydrated and avoid wilting.
- Longer vase life & better color retention.
Keep it Fresh!
- Pre-treatments such as FloraLife® Bulb 100* at farm level help maintain the quality of leaves and buds. Use STS at farm level such as FloraLife® EthylGuard* or EthylBloc™ products during transport and storage to minimize any risk from exposure to ethylene.
- Recommended flower food solution for storage/transport: FloraLife® Express Clear ULTRA 200, FloraLife® Clear 200.
- Recommended flower food solution for end consumers: FloraLife® Bulb Food Clear 300* Packets, FloraLife® Express or FloraLife Crystal Clear®*.
- Cooler / Storage temperature should be 34-38°F, 1-3°C.
- Shipping dry or wet pack is ok as long as you maintain flower food solution if shipping wet and whether wet or dry the cold chain throughout the distribution process.
- Use FloraLife® Transport Paper sheets for shipping and storage.
Performance
- Average vase life for LA Lilies is 4 to14 days.
- Aperture, or opening speed, is slow, especially when received in the bud stage and stored in the cooler. Opening speed will increase in warmer ambient temperatures.
- LA Lilies can be mixed with other flowers without any negative or harmful effects.
- When purchasing, look for healthy green foliage, a straight stem, and plenty of well-formed buds with only one or two flowers open. The number of flower buds per stem is an important characteristic for LA Lilies, there should be anywhere from 3 to10 blooms per stem. Pay attention to transparent, dried or dropped flower buds which are signs of ethylene damage.
- When processing or designing, be sure to remove any foliage that may be below water level.
- Leaf yellowing can be an issue when designing in foam. Be sure to cut stems at a sharp angle before inserting into foam. Use OASIS® MaxLife for best hydration. Check foam often to be sure flowers stay hydrated. Use a secure foam as blooms are weighted to stem ends.
- Use FloraLife® Finishing Touch spray once designs are complete to keep blooms fresh and hydrated.
FIFO
- You can store LA Lilies in a cooler up to 7 days. Some bud necrosis has been observed with prolonged storage so it's always best to follow FIFO (First In First Out) inventory rotation to ensure flowers are their freshest.
Need more info or expert advice for your LA Lilies? Visit FloraLife.com or contact your local representation for an in-person consultation!
*Product availability depends upon geographical region. Check here for more information.