In early spring, before growth starts, remove the dead foliage from the previous year’s growth and any weeds. A summer mulch helps eliminate or ease the unpleasant task of weeding. Perennial grasses can be difficult to eradicate if they become established within the clumps.
Although daylilies tolerate drought, they perform best in moist, but well-drained soils. One inch of water weekly is ideal, more frequent watering may be necessary on sandy soils.
Remove seed pods after bloom to prevent seed production. Plants producing seed are likely to have fewer flowers the following year.
Annual fertilization may be helpful in producing more flowers. A spring application of manure or compost is beneficial each year.
By our calculations, you should look at sowing May May about 42 days before your last frost date.
Propagate by dividing rootball. The best time to transplant or divide plants is early spring or immediately after flowering. Plants divided in the spring may not bloom the same summer. Divisions should have two to three stems or fans of leaves with all roots attached. Make divisions by digging the entire plant and gently pulling the fans apart. Cut the foliage back, leaving only five or six inches. Place the plant in the soil so the crown (the portion where the stem and root meets) is one inch below the ground line. Water thoroughly after planting. A winter mulch of straw or shredded leaves helps ensure against winter injury for unestablished plants.
May May is hardy, so ensure you wait until all danger of frost has passed in your area before considering planting outside.