This Easter season looks very different than any other has before. Easter egg hunts are being held virtually through screens, our grandparents are unable to sit around our dinner table with the rest of the family, and we are all trying to make sense of the new normal we face. As we walk through these challenging times together, there has never been a greater need for hope. The Easter lily is a reminder of hope to us all.

We’ve all seen Easter lilies appear on altars at churches and in homes during this time of year, but there is more significance to the flower than its beauty and exquisite fragrance. The life cycle of the Easter lily, referred to as the “white-robed apostles of hope” - retells the story of the resurrection of Jesus Christ. Their trumpet shaped bulbs represent trumpets sounding the message that Jesus has risen and its snow white color symbolizes new life and hope.

Colossians 1:13-14: "For he has rescued us from the dominion of darkness and brought us into the kingdom of the Son he loves, in whom we have redemption, the forgiveness of sins."

Easter Lily Indoor Care Instructions:

To properly care for you Easter lilies there are a few important steps to take.

• Remove the decorative foil packaging from the plant. Keeping it on will cause too much water to accumulate in the pot causing the roots to rot.
• Place your lilies in a spot with bright, indirect sunlight to ensure its growth. Too much direct light can overheat the plant and shorten their lifespan. The best area for your lily will also be free from drafts and far from heat vents. The ideal indoor temperatures for Easter lilies fall between 60 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit.
• Make sure to not over water the plant. You should only water when the soil of the plant is dry to the touch.
• Remove all antlers (the yellow centers when the flowers open) from the plant to promote extended bloom time of the flowers. Be very careful when removing antlers to avoid staining your clothes.
• Pinch off any withering flowers from the plant in order to promote new flowers to grow.
• *ALWAYS keep pets away from your Easter lilies. If your pet should eat any part of the plant, seek medical treatment from your vet immediately.

Spread the hope this Easter season! Easter lilies are available to purchase at your local store in the floral department.