How to Grow Daylilies

Daylilies (also known as Hemerocallis) are hardy, perennial plants that grow in diverse climates and soils. These plants are available in an assortment of colors and bloom at varying times during summer months depending on the type. For gardeners who prefer low maintenance plants, the daylily is an excellent choice.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Daylily bulbs or root systems
• Hand trowel
• Hand shovel
• Compost or manure
• Water supply
• Plant fertilizer

1. Select a location to plant your daylilies. Most varieties of daylilies require full sun but can tolerate light shade as long as they receive at least six hours of full sunlight every day.
2. Before planting, loosen the soil with a hand trowel and hand shovel to allow oxygen into the soil. This will also help with water movement to the roots.
3. Mix organic compost or manure and add to the soil to assist in fertilization.
4. Dig shallow holes, approximately 16 to 24 inches apart, to plant each daylily. The hole should be large enough to place the bulb or entire root system inside without bending the roots. The top of the bulb, or root system, should be approximately one inch under the surface.
5. Water the newly planted lilies to settle the soil and help with germination. Unless you are in an extremely dry climate, regular watering after planting is unnecessary.
6. Fertilize the plants two to three weeks after planting. Fertilization for daylilies is typically performed once in early spring and, if preferred, again in late summer.
7. Weed the area around the plants regularly to keep the plant healthy. If weeds invade the plant's space, root division and transplanting becomes difficult without including the weeds.
8. Groom the plants to remove dead blooms and leaves if you prefer a manicured appearance. In the late autumn, trim the remaining dead leaves and place mulch on top of the root system to seal the remaining roots from cold winter temperatures.

Tips & Warnings

• Select well-drained locations for planting daylilies. If necessary, create a raised bed with mulch to support drainage. Consider planting daylilies away from trees and shrubs to ensure less competition for water and soil nutrients.
• Flowering may not occur in the year of planting or transplanting. If adequate sun and water are available, flowering should occur the following year. Fertilizing once or twice yearly will help with flowering.
• Pest control is generally unnecessary, with the exception of occasional aphids. Apply non-toxic plant soap as needed to rid the plant of pests.
• Divide daylilies every few years when the plants become crowded. Division assists in regeneration of healthy plants. The best time of year to divide your plants is late summer or early fall after blooming is complete.

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