Growing Daylilies

Best Growing Conditions for Daylilies

Full sun (minimum of 6 hours per day)
Well drained soil rich in organic matter (composted horse manure is great)
pH 6.2-6.8. Tidewater soils tend to be more acid than this, so lime is likely needed.
Abundant moisture (no drought stress) during growing season (March through October)

Plant your new plant as soon as possible, either directly in the ground or in a pot to plant in the ground later
When you plant, add some lime, fertilizer and organic matter into the soil and mix well before planting
Bury the roots only to the crown of the plant, no deeper
Build a berm around the plant so that when you water, the water will slowly sink in around the roots
Water in thoroughly and then use a root stimulant such as Ortho Upstart or Fertilome Root Stimulator mixed according to directions. A dilute solution of high phosphorous soluble fertilizer, 10-16-10, 15-30-15, mixed at half the recommended rate can also be used.
DO NOT WATER the plant again until you see new growth. Overwatering a newly planted bareroot plant can cause it to rot.
After it has started to grow, water it once or twice per week during the growing season
Daylilies are heavy feeders, so make sure it is well fertilized during the growing season. See fertilizer schedule below.
Label your plant: Bury one label in the ground, as a back up. Add another label so you can read it. Pencil written on plastic lasts longer than Sharpies. Paint pens are good, as are label makers and laser printers.
Mulch your plants with 2-3 inches of mulch to minimize weed competition and conserve moisture
Watch for pests and treat as needed: Aphids, Thrips, Spider Mites, Leaf Streak, Rust, and Rot.

Daylily Fertilizer Schedule

Feed daylilies in March and July with Slow Release Lawn Food (16-4-8) or Espoma Plant Tone or Flower Tone
Follow up 6 weeks later with amended Hooker Formula or when you need to treat for insects and/or diseases

Amended Hooker Formula

Add the following to 1 gallon of water and spray the plant foliage: 1 Tablespoon Miracle Gro (15-30-15), 1 Tablespoon Epsom Salt, 3/4 Tablespoon Iron Chelate (liquid iron), and 1 Tablespoon Fish Emulsion

Fungicides & Insecticides only as needed and according to label directions