Got a big beautiful daylily, do I plant it now and how?

Karen Hency
by Karen Hency
  3 answers
  • Mfbandit769 Mfbandit769 on May 15, 2017

    Why would you not want to plant it?? I don't know what zone you are in, but we plant daylilies here in zone 8 pretty much all year round. Pick a very sunny spot Full sun is best for most daylilies, but you need to determine the variety you have because there are SO many varieties with different shade tolerance. Plant in fairly rich balanced soil with a little osmocote or other food for blooming plants.

  • Treva Kirby Adams Treva Kirby Adams on May 15, 2017

    Hi Karen -

    Daylilies can be planted in patio containers or in-ground. For in-ground follow these steps:

    Step 1

    Dig a hole in a location that gets full sun to partial shade. Pastel-colored daylilies will appreciate afternoon shade. The hole should be twice as deep as the bulb is long for low-growing and medium-height varieties, and a little deeper for the tall varieties. Spring is best for planting, but you can plant them anytime the ground is not frozen.

    Step 2

    Space the bulbs 2-3 feet apart, as they will spread as they age and fill in the area between them. Mix a handful of compost to the dug-out soil and fill in the hole.

    Step 3

    Water to keep the ground moist and establish roots. Do not leave them soaking or the bulb may rot. Once the bulb flowers, cut back water to once a week until the flowering season is over, and then stop watering until the following spring.

    Step 4

    Fertilize the first time after flowering and then again in the spring and after flowering each year. Use an all-purpose flower fertilizer or one that is low in nitrogen.

    Step 5

    Mulch with bark chips in late spring to help lock in moisture and keep the ground warmer during the winter. Daylily bulbs do not need to be taken out of the ground for winter.

  • Just peachy Just peachy on May 16, 2017

    Yes, plant it now. Use Treva's directions.