Beginner Gardening: Too many Daylilies, 1 by lafko06

lafko06 wrote:
Hello there,

I just read an article on Daylilies today from Perennials magazine. I just pulled out out my 2005 spring and summer catalogs to re-read. Here is what they say on dividing:

Daylilies grow into large clumps that can easily be divided to make more plants for your own garden or for sharing with friends. Established clumps that have not been blooming as well as they should, might be a little crowded. Most experts recommend dividing dayliles every 5 years. You can divide daylilies in any season althought some gardeners say the best time is just after they finish blooming. Avoid dividing daylilies when it is too hot, too cold or too wet.

Work with recently watered (but not wet) soil. Use a garden fork to lift a clump of daylilies from the ground.

Separate the clump into several new clusters using your fingers; use a knife to cut them apart, if necessary. Each daylily division should include two or three fans, or clusters of leaves.

Trim the foliage back to 3-4 inches above the crown. Also remove any damaged foliage. Some gardeners prune roots lightly with scissors or a knife to encourage new growth.

Replant, spreading the roots out in the planting hold and setting the crown of the daylily so the white part is just covered by soil.

Water well until the daylilies are established.

NOTE: I hope you can get a feel by looking at this picture I took from the article on dividing them with your fingers.