Lilies look best in the landscape in clumps, not in rows or in single bulb plantings. Be sure to take into consideration how wide the clump will become and leave enough space. You can interplant lilies with annuals while the clumps are developing. Lilies can be successfully planted from bulbs or potted plants. Potted lilies are available during the blooming season and enable you to see exactly what you are buying.
Bulbs are available in late summer and early fall and they are less expensive than potted material.
In northern climates, lily bulbs are best planted in late summer or early fall. Potted lilies can be planted anytime during the summer. After you have amended the soil, mix in a little bone meal, bulb booster or perennial fertilizer. The top of each lily bulb should be around 5-6 inches below the surface of the soil. Lily bulbs are fragile, so be sure to treat them gently and don't allow them to dry out.