Jan-Gerrit Bouwman, senior landscape architect, Grant & Power, West Chicago.

Dan Biernacki, vice-president, Ted’s Greenhouse, Tinley Park.

“‘Stargazer’ is an awesome one. I like its strong pink color, and its fragrance is phenomenal. But don’t plant just one. Plant five, seven or nine to make a statement. Also, they grow about 30 inches tall, so use some 12-inch perennials in front of them to conceal the stalk. You need to create a layered look.”

“I like them all. If you’re buying potted lilies now, pick pots that don’t have 3 to 5 bulbs in them because they have smaller bulbs and so won’t produce as many flowers. We plant our pots with just one big bulb, which means you’ll get more flowers over a longer period. In fall buy the biggest bulbs you can find.”

Kim Schroeder, Perennial Manager, Wasco Nursery, St. Charles.

“The bigger the flower, the more attention it calls to itself. The star-shaped pattern of hybrid lilies with their bright bold hues or cooler shades make a definite statement. In a lush, green, elegant garden they become a wonderful focal point; in a country or English garden they help with the balance of flower size. Being a former florist, I believe they are one of the best cutting flowers for a garden.”