How to grow daylily
Overview
Daylily (Hemerocallis fulva) is a clump-forming herbaceous perennial grown for its showy, trumpet-shaped flowers and attractive foliage. It is a tough, low-maintenance plant that thrives in full sun and tolerates a wide range of conditions, making it ideal for filling gaps in garden beds.
Varieties
- Hemerocallis 'Stella de Oro' — A compact, reblooming variety with golden-yellow flowers, ideal for small gardens and borders.
- Hemerocallis 'Catherine Woodbury' — Large, soft pink flowers with a green throat; a reliable performer in Australian gardens.
- Hemerocallis 'Happy Returns' — Lemon-yellow, fragrant flowers that bloom repeatedly from spring to autumn.
Soil Preparation
Daylilies prefer slightly acidic to neutral soil (pH 6.0–7.0). Enrich with well-rotted compost or aged manure before planting. Ensure good drainage; heavy clay can be amended with sand or organic matter.
Growing Guide
Plant daylilies in a sunny position with well-drained soil. Space clumps 45–60 cm apart to allow for spreading. Dig a hole wide enough for the root fan, set the crown at soil level, and water in well. Mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds. Divide clumps every 3–4 years in early spring or after flowering to maintain vigour.
Care
Feed with a balanced slow-release fertiliser (e.g., 10-10-10) in early spring and again after flowering. Remove spent flower stalks to encourage rebloom. Cut back foliage in late autumn to tidy and reduce pest overwintering.
Companion Planting
Pair daylilies with other sun-loving perennials such as lavender, salvia, and echinacea. Avoid planting near aggressive spreaders like bamboo or mint, which can compete for space and nutrients.
Common Pests & Risks
Aphids and thrips can attack new growth; spray with neem oil or insecticidal soap. Snails and slugs may damage foliage; use iron-based pellets or beer traps. Daylily rust appears as orange spots on leaves; remove infected foliage and improve air circulation.
Harvesting
Harvest daylily flowers when buds are fully coloured but still closed, early in the morning. Pick daily for best quality; flowers last only one day. Use fresh or dry for culinary purposes.
Troubleshooting
Yellow leaves: overwatering or poor drainage; reduce water and improve soil. Brown leaf tips: salt buildup or dry conditions; flush soil and water deeply. No flowers: too much shade or overcrowding; move to sunnier spot and divide clumps. Rust spots: fungal disease; remove affected leaves and apply fungicide. Bud drop: inconsistent watering; maintain steady moisture.