RADIO TRANSCRIPT
Date: April 16, 2021
Agent: Donna Teasley
Hello, this is Donna Teasley, horticulture agent with the North Carolina Cooperative Extension, Burke Center.
Do you like daylilies? Most everyone does and I get lots of calls about growing daylilies. They’re one of the easiest perennials out there and with just a little attention, can be an asset to the garden forever.
Would you believe that there are at least 60,000 cultivars of daylilies? Ranging in color from almost white to yellow, orange, pink and shades of brown these flowering perennials can grow almost anywhere. Although they like full sun, they can put up with a little shade. Soil type doesn’t seem to matter and they are tolerant to almost any climate.
Like most perennials, the best thing you can do to keep your daylilies growing well is to divide them every few years. Division of the plant keeps it growing vigorously. Plants should be divided in the late summer, early enough so the roots can become re-established before winter arrives. Early to mid-September should be fine for Burke County. After dividing, the plant foliage can be cut back to about 12 inches to help retain moisture. Fertilizer at this time of the year is not a good idea. Just replant the divided roots and water thoroughly. If you have extra plants, you can share or trade varieties with your friends. It’s a cheap way to expand the garden.
This is Donna Teasley with the North Carolina Cooperative Extension, Burke Center. If you would like more information about this program, you can call us at 439-4460.
