Meet Hemerocallis, better known as daylilies! These incredible flowers are popular for their bright, eye-catching blooms that come in many colors, like yellow, orange, pink, and purple. Each flower only lasts for one day, which is pretty cool, but the good news is that new buds keep appearing all summer, so you’ll have plenty of color in your garden!
Daylilies are tough and easy to grow, making them great for both new and experienced gardeners. They thrive in various soil types and can tolerate dry conditions, but they love sunny spots best. Not only do these flowers look fantastic, but they also attract butterflies and bees, helping to create a lively garden ecosystem.
Popular Daylily Varieties
- Stella de Oro (golden-yellow, continuous bloomer)
- Purple D’Oro (deep purple with a yellow center)
- Catherine Woodbury (soft lavender-pink)
Care
- Water: Daylilies prefer moderate watering. Keep the soil slightly moist, but not soggy. Water deeply once or twice a week, especially during hot weather, but allow the soil to dry out between waterings.
- Light: Daylilies love sunlight! They thrive in full sun, meaning at least 6 hours of direct sunlight each day. However, they can also tolerate partial shade, especially in very hot climates.
- Soil: These plants aren’t too picky about soil, but they do best in well-draining, slightly sandy or loamy soil. Mixing in some compost or organic matter can help make the soil richer and boost growth.
- Temperature and Humidity: Daylilies are tough plants, tolerating a wide range of temperatures from 70°F (21°C) to 100°F (38°C) or more. They can handle both humid and dry conditions, making them super versatile. They’re also hardy in cooler climates and can survive frosty winters.
Planting & Growing
You can grow daylilies from seeds or by dividing existing plants. For division, dig up the clump every three to four years in spring or fall. Use a sharp knife to separate the clump into smaller pieces, ensuring each has roots, then replant them right away.
If you want to grow daylilies from seeds, collect them when the seed pods are brown and ready to burst. Store the seeds in a cool place for about 30 days, then plant them about ¼ to ½ inch deep in soil. Keep the soil moist, and they should sprout in two to three weeks.
Pruning
Pruning daylilies keeps them healthy and helps them bloom better. You can prune once a year in either spring or fall—both work great! In the fall, cut back the plants after the first frost to about 4-6 inches above the ground to prepare for winter. If you miss fall, you can prune in early spring before new growth starts.
During summer, remove dead flowers (deadheading) to encourage new blooms, especially if you have reblooming varieties. Trim the flower stems at their base once they’ve stopped blooming for the season.
For a detailed guide, check out our full article below on how and when to prune daylilies!
Common Pests
Frequently Asked Questions
How to Keep Daylilies Blooming All Summer?
To keep daylilies blooming, make sure to water them regularly and deadhead faded blooms. Cutting off spent flowers, including the small part behind the bloom, encourages more to grow.
Where Do Daylilies Grow Best?
Daylilies thrive in sunny spots that get at least 6 hours of direct light and well-draining soil. They look great planted in groups, along borders, or around shrubs.
Do Daylilies Grow Best in Sun or Shade?
Daylilies love the sun and need at least 6 hours a day to bloom their best. While they can tolerate some shade, they won’t flower as much.
What Is the Lifespan of a Daylily?
Each daylily bloom lasts only a day or two, but the plant itself can live for up to three years, surviving tough conditions like dry soil. The plant keeps producing flowers all season long, giving you constant color.
