The Best Time to Transplant Daylilies

Few perennials are as forgiving as daylilies. They tolerate dry, poor soils and extreme temperatures with aplomb, producing colorful blooms from late spring to late summer, depending on the variety. When necessary, they can be planted at any time.

Planting Time

• The best time to transplant daylilies is in early spring, as soon as the soil can be worked, or right after blooming, according to the University of Minnesota. Daylilies planted in spring may not bloom until the following year.

Division

• Daylilies spread through underground rhizomes and require division every three to four years to keep the plants vigorous. Dig up the entire plant at the recommended planting times. Cut the foliage back to 5 to 6 inches high and gently pull it apart so that each section has two or three leaf fans. Use a shovel to pry very large root masses apart.

Considerations

• Daylilies grow slowly from seed, so most gardeners use nursery-grown transplants or division. These hardy plants grow best in well-drained, slightly acid soils, in full-to-part sun. Once established, they tolerate drought and heat well. They spread quickly and will fill an entire flower bed within three to four years.