Friday, March 12, 2010

DAYLILIES

Daylilies can be grown successfully in all areas of Georgia. To achieve good growth and flowering, plant daylilies where they receive full sun for at least half a day. Many varieties will do well if plants get full sun during mornings and partial shade in the afternoon. They also do well under filtered shade.

Daylilies will grow in a variety of soils from light,sandy soils to heavy clay. Beds should be spaded or tilled deeply to reduce compaction and underlying hard-pans.Both conditions will impede drainage. Do not plant daylilies in poorly drained soil. Plant in soil that is mildly acidic-a pH of 6.0-6.5. Apply lime if pH is below 5.5.

Daylilies can be planted or transplanted at any time of year, but fall or early spring planting is recommended. After planting, water routinely to encourage new growth and early establishment. Vigorous varieties should be divided every four to five years. Clumps are more easily divides if the soil is washed from the roots. One done it is easier to see the root structure which makes separation easier.

Daylilies should be planted 18 to 24 inches apart to prevent crowding. Dig individual holes several inches wider than the root system and at least 12 inches deep. The soil should be worked until crumbly. Build a cone-shaped mound of soil in the middle of the planting hole. Set the plants' roots over the top of the mound trailing downward into the hole. Adjust the height of the mound so that the plant sits as deep as it grew originally.

A safe rule is to seat the plant so that the point where the plant root and foliage meet is not deeper than one inch below the surface of the soil. Cover the roots carefully with soil. Firm the soil around roots but do not pack it. Construct a small mound of soil around the outside of the planting hole to help direct water toward the root system. Water thoroughly after planting and once or twice a week until established.

Mulching with about two inches of pine straw or pine bark is good for the plants and will aide water retention and reduce weeds.

A weekly application of water during the growing season will promote good growth and flowering. Apply enough water to wet the soil to a depth of ten to twelve inches(1/2 inches of water if sandy soil and 3/4 to 1 inch for clay soils). Sandy soils may require water every four to five days.

Daylilies grow better when fertilized with a fertilizer containing a moderate amount of phosphorous and potash(5-10-15 or 6-12-12). Apply in early spring when new growth commences. A rate of two pounds per one hundred square feet is suggested. Your can find more information at
Thomas County Extension's webpage.

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