Master Gardener^sm Column for the Week of April 11, 2005
Peggy Meinzer
Brunswick County Extension Master Gardener^sm Volunteer

Daylilies are tolerant of almost anything that nature or humans can cast upon them—heat, cold, drought, and neglect. They are remarkably resistant to diseases and pest problems. Daylilies require little care, increasing in number and beauty year after year. Their spectacular blooms create a palette of colors. Thirty-five thousand plus (35,000+) registered varieties can be found in a kaleidoscope of extravagant shades—creamy beige, lemon yellow, pale lavender, hot magenta, candy pink, pizza orange, splashy red, and royal purple. Handsome fans of narrow leaves fill out the garden with lush green foliage. Daylilies are true herbaceous perennials. Dozens of flower buds form on each scape (long, slender stems). Each bloom lasts only one day, but is quickly replaced by new blooms over a period of several weeks. Careful selection and a mix of different varieties can stretch the display from early summer into fall. Newer varieties may re-bloom all summer.

When planning a garden using daylilies, keep in mind that their blooms will face the sun in the southeast, following it to the southwest later in the day. Daylilies adapt very well to naturalized settings. They will thrive almost anywhere—in full sun or partial shade and in almost any kind of soil. However, they will not tolerate wet feet and need adequate drainage. Plant daylilies any time from spring through fall. September is a great time to split and replant daylilies. This graceful perennial belongs in every landscape.

Planting daylilies takes little effort. Dig a hole twice as wide and twice as deep as the roots, leaving a small mound in the bottom of the hole. Spread the roots of the plant and cover the crown with no more than 1 inch of soil. Firm the soil and water well. Space plants 18 inches apart and cover with a protective layer of mulch. After 3-4 years, the clumps should be divided.

The versatile modern daylily has been hybridized into unique shapes, textures, improved substance, vigor, and branching. Some blooms are enhanced with startling eyes, soft haloes, wide contrasting bands, or unusual throat markings. The edges of the blooms may be heavily ruffled, frilled like lace, or crimped like piecrust. Bloom types can be recurved, double, triangular, flat, pinched, or spider. Some varieties are delicately fragrant. They range in size from under 12 inches to over 4 feet tall, and the size of the blooms can range from 2 inches to almost 9 inches.

Daylilies can be part of the dinner menu for an adventurous gourmet. Young leaves can be simmered or stir-fried until tasty and tender. Flower buds and blossoms can be eaten at all stages of their growth. Buds can be used in salads or steamed with snow peas. Blossoms can be added to soups or vegetables and are a delicacy lightly battered and deep fried tempura style.

Send your gardening questions or comments to: Brunswick County Master Gardener Column, P.O. Box 109, Bolivia, NC 28422, or call (910) 253-2610. Enclose a self-addressed stamped envelope if requesting information or a reply. Answers may be printed in this column.

For further information or assistance, please e-mail:
Charlie Spencer, Brunswick County Extension Master Gardener^smVolunteer

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Date Created 3/31/2005