This is a great informative discussion, especially to me since I just started gathering Martagons in 2014. Just to add a couple interesting lily history side notes, if I may. B&D referenced to moving Maragons when blooming. This must have been the 'IN THING' to do back in the late 70's, early 80's when making a hybrid selection. My dad would move his selections while near the end of blooming, claiming there was about a two week window. He did this with Asiatics, Orientals and Trumpets as well. Wheelbarrows full of blooming lilies bouncing up and down as they were transferred to their new location. Once transplanted, the flowerhead was removed. I don't remember ever seeing any yellowing of leaves even. While, I personally do not have experience yet with moving Martagons, I do have quite a bit of experience of moving others during late blooming (Asiatic, Trumpet, Oriental and their hybrids).
Now, for a little fun history. Bob Gibson's (B&D) first love with lilies was with Martagons and Species, a love he shared with close friend, Ed McRae. Most of us often think of Ed McRae as a great hybridizer and breeder of many fine commercial hybrids for the OREGON BULB FARM. He may have made his bread and butter that way, but his personal hobby and free time was with Martagons and Species. Bob Gibson had been growing Martagons and Species as a hobby long before B&D got started. It wasn't until John Shaver's heart attack and REX BULB FARMS going out of business that B&D came on board. Their original intent was to go all out in an anticipated growing market for Martigons and Species in North America as it had in Europe and considerable stock was built up.. But when that market didn't take off, B&D eventually took up where REX BULB FARMS left off.
