Growing Daylilies

Botanical Name:

Hemerocallis

Life Cycle:

perennial

Planting Time:

spring or fall

Height:

dwarf types 18" to 24", standard 2' to 6'

Exposure:

full sun or light shade

Soil:

average to rich, moist, well-drained soil; will tolerate drought and poor soil conditions

Hardiness:

zones 3 to 9

Bloom Time:

bloom time varies depending on variety

Flower:

every color with the exception of true blue; showy, trumpet shaped flowers

Foliage:

green; long grass-like leaves

Propagation:

division

Suggested Use:

beds, borders, edging, mass plantings, foundations plantings, containers, and groundcovers for slopes

Growing Hints:

Daylilies are one of the hardiest and easiest perennials to grow. Although the flowers are only open for one day, each plants produces lots of buds and many varieties bloom continuously over the entire season. It's a good idea to start with nursery plants that are blooming to ensure you're getting the color and structure you prefer. Plants are hardy enough to transplant while flowering. Once established, divide in the spring or fall every 4-6 years. When plants start to produce less flowers, it's time to divide them.

Interesting Facts:

Daylily flowers are edible. Use them to add color and flavor to stir-fry , salads and soups (they have a taste resembling green beans). Pick flowers only from plants you are sure have not been sprayed with insecticide.