From our perspective, the first step to a long and flourishing life is a suitable home. We daylilies (Hemerocallis) are remarkably adaptable plants, but we truly thrive in a location that receives at least six hours of direct sunlight daily. While we can tolerate partial shade, our flower production will be significantly reduced. The soil is our foundation; we prefer a well-draining, fertile loam that is rich in organic matter. While we are tolerant of various soil pH levels, a slightly acidic to neutral range (6.0 to 7.0) is ideal for optimal nutrient uptake. Please ensure our planting site does not have standing water, as waterlogged conditions will lead to root rot, which is fatal for us.
Planting us correctly is crucial for our initial establishment and long-term health. The best times to plant our bare-root divisions are in early spring or early fall, when the weather is cooler and we can focus our energy on root development. Dig a hole that is wider and deeper than our root system. Create a small mound of soil in the center of the hole and gently spread our roots over it. The crown—the point where our roots meet our foliage—should be planted no more than one inch below the soil surface. Planting us too deeply can suffocate the crown and inhibit growth. Backfill the hole, water us deeply to settle the soil and eliminate air pockets, and apply a layer of mulch to conserve moisture and regulate soil temperature.
Although we are known for our drought tolerance once established, consistent moisture is key to our best performance. We prefer a deep, thorough watering once or twice a week, which encourages our roots to grow deep and strong, rather than frequent, shallow watering. A layer of organic mulch around our base helps immensely in retaining this precious soil moisture. For nourishment, we benefit from a balanced, slow-release fertilizer applied in early spring as we break dormancy. A second, lighter application after our main blooming period can help us recharge and store energy for the next season. Avoid over-fertilizing, as this will promote excessive foliage at the expense of our beautiful flowers.
Our flowering process is a rapid and continuous cycle. Each individual scape produces multiple flower buds, with each spectacular bloom lasting only one day—hence our name. To keep us looking our best and to encourage more blooms, please practice "deadheading," which is the removal of spent flowers. Once all the buds on a scape have finished blooming, cut the entire stalk down to the base of the plant. This prevents us from expending energy on seed production. Every three to five years, you may notice our clumps become overcrowded and our flowers diminish in size. This is our signal that we need to be divided. Dig up the entire clump in early spring or fall, gently pull or cut the fans apart, and replant the vigorous divisions.
