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June 2003 Newsletter

He who plants a garden finds happiness - Chinese proverb

Daylilies - A Wonderful Addition to any Garden!

It's hard to imagine a garden without daylilies. Daylilies come in so many different colors, shapes and heights, evergreen/deciduous, that they really are a perfect addition to any garden. The daylilies scientific name is Hemerocallis. From just 22 species, all native to Asia, hybridizers have created more than 52,000 cultivars. Surely there is one perfect for your garden!

Daylilies are extremely tolerant. Their USDA Hardiness Zones range from 3 to 10. Although daylilies will survive under almost any conditions, to achieve the most beautiful blooms, you will want to provide full sun and a good garden soil. It is a good idea to mulch the plants once a year with compost or leaf mold and top dress early in the season with a slow-acting fertilizer.

Choosing which daylilies are right for your garden may seem a little daunting simply because there is such a large variety to choose from. Start your shopping process by eliminating those that will not grow well in your region of the country. For instance, evergreen forms will always perform better in the south, whereas deciduous types suffer from the heat and humidity of the south. Next, think about the color or height you are wanting to achieve in your garden. You will find cultivars that are tall, short, ruffled petals, spidered petals, multi-colored to soft, solid colors.

Cleopatra
Photo courtesy of Bill - link noted below

Below is a listing of links to help you with your daylily education and shopping.

    View photos and learn more about the daylily American Hermerocallis Society
    Learn more about care and purchase plants from Connecticut Bloomingfields Farm
    Hybrids from Georgia Daylilies In The Country
    An Illinois Grower Newbury Daylilies
    Wonderful photos and info Bill's Daylily Photo Gallery

Enjoy!