Understanding When and How to Divide Daylilies
Daylilies (Hemerocallis) are among the most popular perennials due to their low maintenance and trumpet-shaped flowers. However, these hardy plants can become overcrowded over time, leading to fewer blooms and weaker growth. Dividing daylilies is an essential gardening practice to revive them. Keep reading to learn how to divide daylilies.
When to Divide Daylilies
The ideal time to divide daylilies is early spring, as new growth begins, or late summer to early fall after blooming ends. Dividing during these times reduces plant stress and gives them time to establish roots before extreme weather. While daylilies are hardy and can be divided at other times, they may require extra care to ensure successful transplantation.
How to Divide Daylilies
Dividing daylilies provides valuable benefits by preventing overcrowding, which promotes healthier growth, boosts blooms, and reduces the risk of disease and pests. Here is a complete tutorial on dividing daylilies:
Tools You’ll Need
Before you start dividing, gather the following tools:
- Shovel or garden fork
- Sharp knife or pruning shears
- Garden gloves
- Balanced fertilizer or compost
Step 1: Dig Up the Clump
Use a shovel or garden fork to dig around the daylily clump, keeping 10–12 inches from the base to avoid damaging the roots. Dig deep enough to loosen the soil beneath the root system, as daylilies often have extensive roots. Once the clump is free, gently lift it from the ground. Shake off excess soil or rinse the roots with water to make division easier.
Step 2: Separate the Clumps
With the clump removed, gently separate it into smaller sections by hand. If the roots are tightly packed or tangled, use a sharp knife or pruning shearsto cut through them. Don’t worry—daylilies are resilient and recover quickly. Each division should have at least two to three leaf fans and a healthy root system.
Step 3: Trim and Inspect the Roots
Before replanting, check the roots for signs of damage, disease, or rot. Trim away any dead, mushy, or overly long roots, cutting them back to 4–6 inches with clean, sharp pruning shears to encourage new root growth. Meanwhile, remove any dead foliage or unhealthy parts of the crown.
Step 4: Replant the Divisions
Pick a sunny spot with well-drained soil to replant your daylily divisions. Dig holes slightly wider than the root system and mix in balanced fertilizer or compost for added nutrients. Place each division in its hole, gently spreading out the roots. Position the crown (where the leaves meet the roots)1 inch above the soil surface. Backfill with soil, press it lightly around the base, then water thoroughly to settle the soil and eliminate any air pockets.
Step 5: Follow-up Care
After planting, take care of your daylilies to help them settle in. Water them regularly to keep the soil moist. You can also apply mulch around the base to retain moisture and prevent weeds. Hold off on fertilizing for a few weeks to avoid stressing the plants while they establish themselves.
How Often Should You Divide Daylilies?
Daylilies typically need to be divided every 3 to 5 years to keep healthy. However, if you start to notice fewer blooms, a decrease in vigor, or overcrowding where the plants are struggling for space, it’s a clear sign that they need to be divided sooner.
Conclusion
Dividing daylilies is a simple yet effective way to keep your plants vibrant, thriving, and full of life. By following our step-by-step guide, you can ensure your garden is filled with vibrant daylily blooms for years to come. Stay tuned for more expert gardening advice, or share your experiences and questions in the comments below!
