Dependable Daylily

Hemerocallis is the scientific name for the daylily, but whatever you call it, this perennial has so much to offer, it should be included in any garden. So what is it that makes the daylily such a "must have"?

• It comes in many colors shapes and sizes.


• It will tolerate a wide range of conditions


• It thrives with very little care, and are drought tolerant.


• It is resistant to disease and pest problems.


• It produces the most exquisite blooms, each one lasting only one day.

You are probably most familiar with yellow and orange daylilies, but that's just the start. There are lilies in every hue, and shades from pale pastels, to the deepest reds.

While daylilies will tolerate poor soil, you'll be rewarded for giving it the best conditions you can. Here's how to have a happy daylily:

• Plant in full sun, or mostly sunny locations


• Plant in well drained soil.


• Improve your soil with compost before planting.


• Once plant is established, use a balanced fertilizer


• Mulch to retain moisture, and keep down weeds.

Since I am an undiscplined gardener, I get a huge return on my inconsistent investment! I have about a half dozen varieties in my yard, that is one of mine at the top of this post. It is a Viette daylily, the Viette's have been growing and hybridizing daylilies for 3 generations. You can see some of their beautiful hybrids at their website: http://www.viette.com.