Daylilies: How to Plant Them

Where to plant daylilies?

Daylilies are robust, low-maintenance perennials native to temperate regions of the Far East. They adapt well to gardens in temperate climates and can withstand various conditions. Generally, they prefer a sunny to partially shaded position, as 4 to 6 hours of sunlight per day are sufficient for them to produce abundant and colourful blooms. Ideally, adjust their exposure according to your climate: in hot, dry regions of southern France, opt for a slightly shaded spot to protect daylilies from intense sunlight and drying out, especially in summer. In cooler regions, choose a sunny location to maximise their light exposure, as too much shade may reduce flowering.

These plants thrive in deep, fertile, slightly moist and well-drained soil. Lastly, avoid very windy areas, as this can dry out the leaves and limit the plant’s growth. A good mulch around the base of daylilies can also help keep the soil cool and retain moisture, particularly during periods of intense heat.

Daylilies Green Flutter – Snowy Eyes – Baby Betsy

When to plant daylilies?

Daylilies can be planted almost all year round, avoiding however periods of intense frost and extreme heat. The best time to plant them remains autumn (from September to November), as this allows them to develop a strong root system before winter. Autumn planting ensures more vigorous growth in spring and abundant flowering from the start of the season. They can also be planted in spring, in April-May, once the soil has warmed up. This period is particularly suitable in regions with harsh winters, as it protects young plants from frost damage.

How to plant daylilies?

• Start by preparing the soil: weed and work it deeply to loosen it and ensure good root aeration. You can add some well-rotted compost to enrich the soil.
• Dig a wide hole with a spade or dibber, about 20 to 30 cm deep and wide, so the roots can spread out properly.
• Place the plant so that the crown (the junction between the stem and roots) sits about 3 cm below the soil surface. This helps the plant stay well-anchored and protected from temperature fluctuations.
• Respect spacing between plants: allow about 25 cm for dwarf varieties and up to 50 cm for taller varieties, giving each plant room to develop without competition for space and nutrients.
• Backfill the hole with the original soil, which you can lighten with some potting compost if your soil is particularly heavy or clayey, to ensure good drainage. Firm gently without compacting to avoid restricting oxygen around the roots.
• Water generously after planting to ensure good moisture and encourage root establishment.
• Mulch around the base of the plants with a layer of organic mulch (such as wood chips or straw) to retain moisture, suppress weeds and protect against temperature fluctuations.

How to care for them?

Maintaining daylilies is quite straightforward, but a few regular tasks will keep them in top condition and ensure abundant flowering:

In spring, keep an eye out for young shoots, which can be targeted by slugs and snails. If necessary, place natural barriers (such as crushed eggshells) around the plants or use eco-friendly solutions to deter them. Feel free to check out our advice sheet: “Slugs: 7 ways to control them effectively and naturally”

If the weather is dry, water your daylilies once or twice a week in spring, ensuring the soil remains slightly moist, especially until the first flower buds appear. Once the flowers have formed, you can space out the watering, as daylilies are relatively drought-tolerant.

In summer, after flowering (around August), you can cut back the foliage by trimming the stems and leaves down to ground level with secateurs. This pruning encourages the growth of fresh, denser foliage, which will enhance the garden in late summer and autumn.

In autumn, consider dividing the clumps if they become too large, typically every 4 to 5 years. Dividing rejuvenates the plants and prevents them from competing for nutrients. To divide, dig up the clump, separate the roots, and replant the new sections in enriched, well-prepared soil.

→ Also read: How to divide daylilies?