To keep your ‘Happy Returns’ daylilies blooming happily, there are a few simple steps you can take. First and foremost, it’s important to remove spent flowers daily. This not only keeps your plants looking neat and tidy, but it also encourages the production of new blooms. By removing the faded flowers, you prevent the plants from putting energy into producing seeds and instead redirect that energy towards producing more flowers.
When removing the spent flowers, you can simply pinch or snap them off at the base of the flower stalk. This is an easy task that can be done while strolling through your garden and enjoying the beauty of your daylilies.
In addition to deadheading, it’s also beneficial to cut back the flower stems, or scapes, once they have finished flowering. This helps maintain the overall appearance of the plant and prevents it from looking messy. By cutting back the scapes, you also ensure that the plant’s energy is focused on growth and development rather than on producing seed pods.
When cutting back the scapes, it’s best to use sharp and clean pruning shears. Make the cut just above the base of the plant, being careful not to damage any emerging foliage or new flower buds. By removing the spent scapes, you encourage the plant to continue blooming and can prolong the flowering period.
Another important aspect of keeping your ‘Happy Returns’ daylilies blooming is to provide them with the right growing conditions. Daylilies are generally low-maintenance plants, but they do have certain requirements. They prefer to be grown in full sun to partial shade and in well-drained soil. If your daylilies are not receiving enough sunlight, they may not bloom as profusely.
In terms of soil fertility, daylilies are not overly picky. However, incorporating organic matter such as compost or well-rotted manure into the soil before planting can improve overall plant health and encourage better blooming. It’s also important to water your daylilies regularly, especially during dry periods, to ensure they have adequate moisture.
Over time, daylilies will slowly increase in size and can become crowded. After 3-4 years, it’s a good idea to divide and replant your daylilies. This helps rejuvenate the plants and promotes better blooming. Dividing daylilies is a fairly straightforward process. Simply dig up the clump of daylilies, being careful not to damage the roots, and use a clean sharp knife or garden spade to divide the clump into smaller sections. Replant the divisions in well-prepared soil, making sure to space them adequately to allow for future growth.
By following these simple steps of deadheading, cutting back scapes, providing the right growing conditions, and dividing when necessary, you can ensure that your ‘Happy Returns’ daylilies continue to bloom happily for years to come. Enjoy the beauty and rewards of these lovely flowers in your garden!
