Daylilies, scientifically known as Hemerocallis, are popular garden perennials celebrated for their hardiness and abundant, colorful flowers. Although often called “bulbs,” daylilies actually grow from fleshy, bare-root divisions or crowns, which are the points where the roots meet the foliage. Correctly positioning this crown during planting is essential for ensuring the plant establishes quickly and produces abundant blooms. Paying close attention to the planting depth and soil conditions sets the stage for a healthy, long-lived plant.
Preparing the Planting Site
Daylilies thrive in locations that receive at least six hours of direct sunlight each day. They tolerate light shade, especially in hotter climates where afternoon shade can prevent flower scorching. The best times for planting bare-root divisions are in early spring or in late summer and early fall, ideally four to six weeks before the ground freezes. This timing allows the roots sufficient opportunity to become established before the stress of summer heat or winter dormancy.
The soil must be well-drained, as daylilies do not tolerate standing water, which can lead to crown rot. While adaptable to various soil types, incorporating organic matter, such as compost or aged manure, improves soil structure and fertility. Loosening the soil to a depth of 10 to 12 inches allows the roots to spread easily and encourages vigorous growth. An ideal soil pH for daylilies is slightly acidic to neutral, ranging from 6.0 to 7.0.
Determining the Correct Planting Depth
Correctly positioning the crown is the most important aspect of planting. The crown is the area at the base of the leaves where the roots originate. Set the daylily crown no more than one inch below the soil surface after the soil has been firmed. Some experts recommend positioning the crown level with the soil line, especially in heavy clay soils where moisture retention is higher.
Planting the crown too deeply can cause the plant to “sulk,” resulting in poor blooming and a high risk of crown rot due to prolonged moisture around the base. Conversely, planting too shallowly leaves the crown and upper roots vulnerable to drying out, which can stunt growth and cause the plant to become unstable. Maintaining the one-inch maximum depth ensures the crown is protected and encourages the formation of new roots and “fans,” the new divisions of the plant.
Spacing and Root Placement
Before planting, soak the bare roots in lukewarm water for about 30 minutes to rehydrate them. Dig a hole 12 to 18 inches wide to accommodate the full spread of the roots without bending or crowding them. In the center of this wide hole, create a small, firm mound of soil to serve as a base for the plant.
Place the daylily division on this central mound, draping the roots down and out over the sides like the tentacles of an octopus. This technique ensures the roots are oriented naturally downward, promoting deep, strong anchoring in the soil. Backfill the hole gently, tamping the soil as you go to eliminate air pockets around the roots. For mass planting, space individual daylily divisions about 18 to 36 inches apart, depending on the cultivar’s mature size.
Immediate Care After Planting
Once the soil is backfilled and the crown is at the correct depth, firm the soil around the base of the plant using gentle pressure from your hands. Immediately after planting, a thorough watering is necessary to fully settle the soil and eliminate air pockets that could dry out the roots. Newly planted daylilies require consistent moisture for the first few weeks to support root establishment.
Apply a light layer of organic mulch, such as shredded bark or compost, over the planting area to help retain soil moisture and regulate soil temperature. Keep this mulch an inch or two away from the daylily crown itself to prevent moisture buildup that could lead to rot. Consistent watering, about one inch per week, is sufficient until the plant shows signs of vigorous new growth and is fully established.