Tips for Gardening Day Lilies

Growing Requirements

• Day lilies require full sunlight. If you can't provide full sunlight, locate the plants where they receive bright sunlight during the morning hours and light or filtered shade during the afternoon. In very hot climates, a bit of afternoon shade preserves the bright color of the blooms. However, too much shade results in healthy foliage but poor blooming.

Soil

• Although day lilies are adaptable to nearly any well-drained soil, the plants perform best in mildly acidic soil with a pH of 6.0 and 6.5. If your soil pH is below 5.5, apply a product containing lime or dolomite to increase the pH. Rate of application depends on the type of soil; however, in average soil, 4 pounds of agricultural limestone applied to 100 square feet of garden space raises the pH to 6.0. Sulfur products that lower pH are in order if the soil pH is above 6.5. Never use more than 1 pound of sulfur in a single application.

Planting

• Although you can plant day lilies any time of year, planting in fall is preferable, because the roots prefer cool soil. Before planting, spade or till the soil to a depth of 18 to 24 inches, because thorough tilling loosens compacted soil and allows for healthy drainage. Plant the tuberous roots at least 12 inches deep. Create a mound in the bottom of the hole, and then spread the roots evenly over the mound. For a dramatic display, plant three day lilies in each hole.

Water

• As a general rule, day lilies benefit from one deep watering every week. Two waterings may be needed during hot, dry weather. Water enough to wet the soil to a depth of 10 to 12 inches, and then let the soil dry slightly before watering again. Don't overwater; day lilies don't do well when the roots stand in soggy soil. Day lilies perform well when the soil is mulched, because mulch keeps the roots cool. Mulch also conserves moisture and helps staunch growth of weeds. Apply about 1 inch of mulch such as chopped bark, decomposed leaves or pine straw.

Fertilizer

• Although day lilies may bloom without fertilizer, the plants benefit from an annual feeding as soon as new growth emerges in early spring. Use a fertilizer with an N:P:K ratio such as 5-10-5, applied at a rate of 2 pounds for every 100 square feet of growing area. Many gardeners provide a second application in midsummer. Use a high-quality, premium-grade product; inexpensive brands often don't contain the small amounts of trace elements that are necessary for healthy growth.