Some lily stems that are a lot further advanced, although the photo was taken the same time as those on page one with just noses showing above ground.

Different lilies emerge and mature at different times throughout the season, and some lilies although perhaps the same clone, may mature earlier when grown in more sheltered area.

This one will flower in January.

The growing crown

This photo shows the 'vase' type shape of the growing crowns of some lilies. A very natural water collector!

Looking right inside, in some cases, the tiny buds that will become the flowers some months later, can already be seen.

"Jollies Brook" Leeston, late October

The following report came from Eileen Greenwood who lives at "Jollies Brook", a farm about 45 minutes drive south of Christchurch. Eileen has had a lot of success with her lilies over the years and has massive summer displays in her front garden. She particularly does well with some of the species.

"We are looking forward to the new lily season after quite a cold winter when in June we had 4 inches of snow, which is very unusual. A good winter rainfall meant the farm was in good condition for the coming season. However, since September the dry Nor'-West winds have meant the irrigation plants have not been idle on the arable crops, wheat, barley and peas.

The lilies are very forward and I have already had Lilium amabile flowering, and Lilium mackliniae is almost showing some colour. All the hybrids and varieties I grow are wonderfully strong and healthy which is very good as last season was a very difficult one with much January rain and sunless days. So we are looking forward to a more normal season here on the farm." - Eileen.