Daylily care guide: when & how to prune, fertilize and spray

When: 9–11 weeks after the last spring frost, then every 3 weeks (3 times a season).

• zones 3–5: about Jul 12–26
• zones 6–7: about Jun 17 – Jul 1
• zones 8–10: about Apr 29 – May 13

Removing faded flowers before they set seed encourages new blooms.

1. Snap off spent flowers daily for neatness, and cut bare flower stalks (scapes) at the base once all buds have bloomed.

When: 14–17 weeks after the last spring frost.

• zones 3–5: about Aug 16 – Sep 6
• zones 6–7: about Jul 22 – Aug 12
• zones 8–10: about Jun 3–24

Cutting tattered leaves back after the first big bloom brings fresh foliage and more flowers.

1. Cut the leaves back to 3–4 in (8–10 cm), then water and feed lightly.

When: from the last spring frost to 3 weeks after.

• zones 3–5: about May 10–31
• zones 6–7: about Apr 15 – May 6
• zones 8–10: about Feb 25 – Mar 18

A single feeding as new shoots emerge is enough for most perennials. Overfeeding makes them floppy.

1. Scatter a balanced slow-release or organic fertilizer around the plant, or top-dress with 1 in (2–3 cm) of compost, then water.

What to use: 🌿 Balanced organic granular fertilizer (e.g. Espoma Plant-tone 5-3-3) · 🌿 Finished compost or composted manure

When: 3–6 weeks before the first fall frost.

• zones 3–5: about Aug 20 – Sep 10
• zones 6–7: about Sep 13 – Oct 4
• zones 8–10: about Oct 20 – Nov 10

Dividing in early fall gives roots time to establish before winter.

1. Only needed if the clump is crowded, flowering less, or dead in the center.
2. Dig around the clump and lift it with a fork.
3. Split it into fist-sized pieces with a sharp spade or knife, each with roots and shoots.
4. Replant at the same depth, water well, and share the extras.

Tools: Spade, Garden fork