foxtail lily bulbs?

they looked so pretty in the catalog! So I bought three 'robustus' bulbs and now wonder if it was a good idea in my cold zone 5a gardens? Anyway, our weather is cold and windy but they just arrived so I'm hoping someone has some experience with this bulb. The planting instructions call for shallow planting but maybe I should plant deeper in my zone? Ack. thanks for any suggestions.

Catherine

Good drainage is of the upmost importance. The cold is usually only a problem in the spring if you've got an exposed growing point; in that case protection against early and mid-spring frost or freezes is essential. References also recommend planting in a protected area, and a dark background.

I grew foxtail lillies for several years. My first planting did not survive but the 2nd did and over 3 years flowered very nicely. This year( the 4th summer) they came up early but only foliage and no flowers.. Since they are not actually hardy here I had them planted in a south bed next to my house foundation and a couple of feet from a brick patio. - my pushing the zone bed!

I just received 6 today I ordered from the Brent and Becky's bulb co-op..I was looking up some info on them and found these two site..I hope this helps you..I think they answered my questions..the same as your just a few hours ago..lol..
http://www.ces.ncsu.edu/depts/hort/consumer/factsheets/bulbs-spring/Eremusp.htm
http://www.ces.ncsu.edu/depts/hort/consumer/factsheets/bulbs-summer/eremurus.html
and here's another info about 1/2 way down...
http://www.gardenimport.com/bulbtips.php

More...:-)
http://www.brentandbeckysbulbs.com/spring/productview/index.php?sku=17-0108
It won't let me post the site page so here's the info from Van Engelen site...
Also known as "Desert Candles" or "Foxtail Lilies", these graceful spires of dense flowers are one of the most spectacular, early-summer flowering blooms. Please plant them immediately upon receipt about 36" apart with 2" to 3" of soil over the spidery rootstocks. They prefer rich, well-draining soil with nice, bright sun and protection from the wind. Top size, tuberous rootstocks. Bloom time: Late May/early June. Height: 3' to 6'. HZ: 5-8.

This message was edited Nov 1, 2006 7:16 PM

thanks everyone for your comments; it's colder than usual here this fall so I'm hoping for a little indian summer next week to get these planted

jodyc: your links were very helpful - thanks so much
fancyvan: 3a! there's hope for these then
dmorth: I've got lovely sandy loam soil and am planning these for a raised bed - hope it works


Catherine