Daylilies, scientifically known as Hemerocallis, are popular, tough perennials valued for their vibrant, trumpet-shaped flowers and ability to thrive in a wide range of conditions. These plants are not true lilies but belong to their own genus. Securing high-quality, correctly labeled specimens requires understanding the various retail channels available, including physical stores and mail-order specialists.
Purchasing Daylilies Locally (In-Person Retail)
Buying daylilies from a physical location offers the advantage of hands-on inspection of the plant before purchase. Local nurseries and garden centers are excellent sources for common cultivars and offer the benefit of regional knowledge from staff familiar with local growing conditions. However, their selection is often limited to popular, well-established varieties that are easily propagated.
For access to a broader range of unique genetics, gardeners should seek out specialty daylily farms or local hybridizers. These smaller operations often focus on named varieties and newer introductions, providing a chance to see a plant bloom in the field before buying it. Local daylily club listings, often affiliated with the American Hemerocallis Society (AHS), can be a good resource for finding these specialized growers.
Mass-market retailers, such as big box stores, typically offer daylilies at a lower cost. However, the stock frequently consists of less vigorous or mislabeled plants due to high volume sales and less specialized handling. The risk of acquiring an incorrectly identified cultivar or a stressed plant is significantly higher at these locations.
Buying Daylilies Online (Mail Order Specialists)
Purchasing daylilies from online mail-order specialists provides unparalleled access to a vast catalog of unique and rare cultivars. National hybridizers and niche nurseries often release their newest introductions exclusively through online channels. Remote ordering is often the only way to acquire certain plants, connecting gardeners with varieties unavailable at local garden centers.
When selecting an online vendor, check for signs of a reputable business, such as positive reviews on specialized forums. Checking for inclusion on the American Hemerocallis Society’s (AHS) vendor lists indicates a commitment to quality and correct labeling. Place a small initial order to assess the quality of the plant material and customer service before making a larger investment.
Plants shipped via mail are frequently sent bare-root to minimize weight and shipping costs. Upon arrival, the daylily may show signs of stress, such as trimmed or yellowed foliage, which is a normal response to being out of the soil and in transit. Reputable specialists time their shipping to coincide with appropriate planting seasons in the customer’s region.
Assessing Plant Quality and Form
Bare Root vs. Potted Forms
Daylilies are typically sold in one of two forms: bare root or potted, and each has implications for the buyer. Bare-root plants have had all their soil removed, making them light and easy to ship. This dormant state also prevents the plant from becoming root-bound, a common issue in container stock that can restrict future growth.
Potted plants are ready for immediate planting and offer a visual confirmation of established foliage. However, if a potted plant has been confined for too long, the roots can circle the pot’s interior, requiring the gardener to aggressively loosen the root mass before planting. Bare-root plants may take longer to establish new feeder roots, but they ultimately acclimate well because they are not overcoming a restrictive root ball.
Inspecting Plant Quality
Regardless of the source or form, inspecting the physical quality of the plant is necessary. The crown, which is the solid white junction where the roots meet the foliage, should be firm and solid to the touch. A soft or squishy crown is a sign of rot or disease that can quickly lead to plant failure.
Healthy roots should be fleshy and appear white or tan. Brown or mushy roots indicate a problem with the plant’s health.