Noteworthy CharacteristicsThese daylilies bloom one to three weeks before the height of bloom of most cultivars. They are rebloomers and will bloom more than once in a season.

CareDaylilies are basically sun lovers. They bloom admirably in six hours of sun and will make do with less, but in the North, the more sun they get, the better. In the South, though, they appreciate protection at midday and do best under a high canopy of light shade. While daylilies will grow in ordinary garden soil and are not fussy about pH, they perform magnificently in soils that have been generously amended with organic matter--compost, rotted leaves, or well-aged manure. Moisture is the other key to growing really spectacular daylilies. Although their plump storage roots keep them going in times of drought and guarantee survival, an abundance of water makes all the difference to the quality and quantity of the flowers. Try to provide at least an inch of water a week in the North, more in the South. Mulching plants with shredded leaves or other light organic matter goes a long way toward ensuring moisture retention.

PropagationDivide in spring or autumn.

ProblemsDaylilies are strong plants and relatively pest and disease resistant. Some minor damage from sucking insects like aphids and thrips. Slugs and snails may damage young leaves. Rust is possible.