• I have heard that there are more than 40,000 daylilies. How could I possibly choose what I want?


There have been more than 40,000 varieties named over the years, but only about 10,000 are available at any one time. Even this number is mind boggling! We at www.ezdaylily.com try to offer 150 to 200 varieties we feel give the average gardener an excellent selection. These are well-tested varieties, which perform well for us.

• I have heard that daylilies are expensive. How much do they cost?


Our nursery offers many fine varieties for $4 to $5. We think that our average customer is more interested in quality daylilies at an affordable price rather than expensive "latest and greatest" which may end up as difficult to grow and slow to increase. In other words, we strive for utility rather than novelty.

 

• When is the right time to plant my daylilies?


Anytime the ground isn’t frozen, is often how it is said. However, daylilies will do better when planted after the ground warms up and the soil can be prepared well. They may be planted throughout the spring, summer and fall provided care is taken to keep them well-watered the first year and to provide a loose organic mulch in the fall of the first year. Daylilies are tough and will withstand some abuse, but will perform better if a few cultural techniques are observed.

 

• I have heard of daylily rust. What is it?


Daylily rust is a foliar fungal disease of daylilies. It can be devastating to susceptible varieties. Rust diseases are complex. A more complete treatment may be found on the Internet by searching for daylily rust. It is a relatively new problem of daylilies and we don’t know much yet, especially about effective treatments.

 

• How do I deal with the daylily rust problem?


The best way is to avoid the problem and buy from rust-free sources. Ezdaylily.com is state inspected and our plants have passed inspection and are rust free. The problem seems to be more localized to the south at this time. Certain nurseries are under quarantine and efforts are being made to avoid the spread of this problem. Vigilance is indicated to keep it out of your garden if possible. Chemical sprays are available but none to date will completely eradicate this disease. They are expensive as well.

 

• We are in the midst of a three-year drought. Will I have to irrigate my daylilies?


Daylilies need to have water to survive and irrigation is essential in many areas to ensure good performance. Water is often at a premium and irrigation of gardens is restricted. Some suggestions are offered. (1) Organic mulches are very helpful in conserving what rainfall occurs. It keeps the soil cooler and inhibits weeds, thus saving water. (2) Drip irrigation will make the available water go a lot farther. It will only require one half less water. (3) Planting in partial shade or on a north facing slope will result in less water usage. (4) Irrigating with gray water may be considered.