The flowers of most daylilies (Hemerocallis) (figure A) open in the morning and close at night, lasting only one day (some varieties open new blooms late in the evening). These versatile and easy-care perennials come in a wide range of colors, including cream, yellow, bronze, burgundy, orange, red, pink, lavender and many combinations. Some have a sweet fragrance. Daylilies require full sun and regular water, but they're not fussy about soil. Remove faded flowers with pruning shears to keep the plant looking neat, and when an entire bloom stalk, or scape, is dry, give it a tug. It should pull away cleanly. Or clip it off at the base. Divide daylilies in early spring or late fall. Dig down with a shovel, removing the whole clump from the soil. Make sure each division has a good-sized piece of root and some foliage. Remove most of the top growth, and plant the divisions in good garden soil or in containers. Apply a complete fertilizer in spring and fall. Thousands of varieties of daylilies are available in many different shapes and sizes. Most have healthy, good-looking foliage as well. If the foliage begins to turn yellow or look tatty, simply clip it off, and new leaves will take its place.
RESOURCES :
the American Hemerocallis Society
for the book The Gardener's Guide to Growing Daylilies
Timber Press
Portland, OR 97204
Phone: 503-227-2878
Daylilies: The Perfect Perennial
Model: 0882666517
Author: Lewis Hill
Storey Books
April 1991
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