When do I separate my day lilies?

I have some day lilies in a big pot about 3 years when can I separate them safely?
  9 answers
  • Phillip Williams Phillip Williams on Jan 21, 2015
    Day lilies are nearly indestructible. They can be separated successfully just about any time, but now is a good time when they are dormant. Lift them from the container, wash away the soil from the roots and gently tug them apart. Then replant them. They should do well this year, but will be even better the following year.
  • Becky Klinkhamer Becky Klinkhamer on Jan 21, 2015
    You can divide them in the spring after your last frost date, Gently break off a fan/root section and either repot in additional pots or directly into the ground. Add compost to your existing soil.
  • Jan Jan on Jan 21, 2015
    Can you bring the pot inside to help thaw the soil? Once thawed pull them out and divide. They are very hearty so no need to worry, in fact you may need a knife to help divide. Then repot with new soil and they will be much happier with more space
    • Judy Judy on Jan 22, 2015
      @Jan I seriously doubt if the soil is frozen in Memphis, TN.........
  • Pat Pat on Jan 21, 2015
    Spring-time is best. Split the root section into sections, and replant. Day lillies are very tolerant of dividing - in fact, they flourish. (I've also needed to move them at other seasons, and they do equally well.)
  • Linda Earhart-Knepp Linda Earhart-Knepp on Jan 21, 2015
    AS SOON AS YOU SEE GROWTH IN THE SPRING. YOU CAN MOVE THEM ANY TIME DURING THE GROWING SEASON.......I HAVE OVER 30 OF THEM......
  • BONNIE J BONNIE J on Jan 22, 2015
    LOVE MY DAYLILY GARDEN!!
    • BONNIE J BONNIE J on Jan 23, 2015
      @BONNIE J I'M ACTUALLY MORE OF AN ASIATIC LILY FAN & I LOVE THE STARGAZER ORIENTAL. THEY BLOOM LONGER I THINK?
  • MaryAnn B MaryAnn B on Jan 22, 2015
    Daylilies are almost indestructible. When you see new growth is a great time meaning they have broken their dormancy. If you've had them growing in pots for 3 years, you will have a giant mass of roots. The whole thing might just lift from the container and you can proceed to separate them. Spraying with a garden hose will help you see where they can be pulled or cut apart. I grow over 200 daylilies and this can be a daunting chore. I put mine in a wheelbarrow and sit in a chair to do it.
  • Judy Judy on Jan 22, 2015
    I agree with Mr Williams. They're hard to kill but it's less stressful for them when they're dormant so do it soon or wait until they've finished blooming.
  • Cindy Cindy on Jan 22, 2015
    Agree daylillies are one of greatest plants for their indestructible nature. Have at them when ever you choose. They will be happy. I had some in black trash bags to replant, had a house fire, went back 4 months later, and most were still alive and fine. That should tell you a lot about this plant!