Daylilies originated in Asia, but have become so widely grown in the U.S., that in some places they are considered a weed. Indeed, like most weeds, they tolerate poor soils, drought conditions, blazing heat and frigid winters successfully. But before you compare them to the likes of dandelions and crabgrass, consider their many fine attributes.
Daylilies have a lovely, mounded form and green strap-like foliage that looks attractive even when the plants aren’t in bloom. Their flowers stand on tall stalks above the foliage and come in brilliant shades of orange, red, coral, yellow, and occasionally even more exotic shades, such as purple, white and fuchsia. Here are some ideas that go beyond the traditional planting bed and will help you to really showcase your daylilies.
Ideas for Growing Daylilies
Here are some ideas that go beyond the traditional planting bed and will help you to really showcase your daylilies.
Dramatic Color Effects:
Plant daylilies in a location that will complement and emphasize their colors. For example, daylilies with yellow or cream flowers contrast nicely against a dark house, fence or evergreens. For the opposite effect, plant daylilies with dark flowers against a light house or fence. Select plants whose foliage and flowers complement daylilies, as well. For example, blue iris, purple butterfly bush or lavender are a vivid contrast to yellow or orange daylilies.
Daylilies for Accent:
Planted as a group, daylilies provide an attractive accent or focal point. Plant a clump of them near an entrance or steps, perhaps with an ornamental grass. Their foliage spills attractively over the edges of beds onto paths and sidewalks, softening hard lines in a front yard. Try one or two daylilies in a large planter, surrounded by petunias and trailing licorice plant.
Mirrored in Water:
Consider planting daylilies next to a pond or water feature. Although daylilies won’t tolerate very soggy soil, they’ll grow well in most applications, and their brilliant flowers and gently waving foliage looks lovely mirrored in water. Pair daylilies with iris, grasses and calla lilies. Calla lilies are not winter hardy, but the bulbs can be dug up and stored indoors.
Spotlighted at Night:
Most daylilies produce flowers that bloom for one day and then close. However, the flowers of several varieties stay open most of the night. Plant daylilies along driveways, in planters or on patios where outdoor lighting will shine on them and accentuate their foliage and blooms.
Daylilies are a good choice for steep slopes and banks where grass doesn’t grow well, or is difficult to mow. In fact, they are often found growing wild along roadsides and creek banks. Not only do daylilies make an attractive, low-maintenance ground cover for these areas, but their roots form a dense mat that prevents soil erosion.
Choose daylilies to fill those tricky problem spots in your yard, such as the space between the walkway and the house or between a driveway and a fence. Narrow spaces or areas that can’t be accessed by a lawn mower are ideal choices for daylilies. These tough plants crowd out weeds, spread quickly and rarely require supplemental watering.
Tips for Growing Daylilies
- Plant daylilies in full sun. Although they’ll grow in shade, they won’t bloom as prolifically.
- Provide well-drained, slightly moist soil for best growth.
- Divide daylilies every three to four years to improve their vigor and add to your collection.
- Mulch daylilies with 2 to 3 inches of wood chips to conserve moisture and keep down weeds.
- Plant several varieties that bloom at different times to extend the blooming season.
Want to learn more about ways to grow daylillies?
See these helpful resources:
Growing Daylilies from University of Minnesota Extension
Daylilies from Iowa State University Extension