If you’ve been growing daylilies in your garden for some time, you may have noticed that they tend to grow into dense clumps over time. Dividing daylilies is an essential practice to ensure the health and vitality of these perennial plants. Not only does dividing daylilies help rejuvenate them, but it also allows you to propagate new plants to expand your garden or share with fellow gardening enthusiasts.
Before you begin the process of dividing your daylilies, it’s important to wait until the right time of year. The best time to divide daylilies is in the early spring or late summer when the plants are not actively blooming. Dividing daylilies during these periods will minimize stress on the plants and allow them to establish themselves before the growing season kicks in.
Start by trimming off the tops of the foliage with pruning shears. This will make it easier to work with the plants and reduce the amount of stress on them during the division process. Next, carefully dig up the root ball under a clump of daylilies. Use a garden fork or shovel to gently loosen the soil around the roots, being careful not to damage them.
Once you have lifted the clump of daylilies from the ground, flip the root ball over on a flat surface. Use a sharp spade or knife to divide the root ball into smaller sections. Aim to create clumps that are around 6-8 inches in size, with each section having a healthy portion of roots and foliage. Dividing the root ball into smaller sections will help stimulate new growth and ensure the health of the divided plants.
If the division process yields enough new plants for your liking, you can simply re-plant the clumps in your garden or in containers. When re-planting the divided daylilies, make sure to space them about two feet apart to allow for proper air circulation and growth. Choose a sunny location with well-draining soil for your daylilies to thrive.
After replanting the divided daylilies, water them thoroughly to help settle the soil and encourage new root growth. Keep the soil consistently moist in the weeks following the division to aid in the establishment of the new plants. Consider applying a balanced fertilizer to the soil to provide the divided daylilies with the nutrients they need to grow strong and healthy.
It’s important to monitor the divided daylilies regularly after planting to ensure they are adapting well to their new environment. Check for signs of stress, such as wilting foliage or stunted growth, and make adjustments as needed. With proper care and attention, your divided daylilies should thrive and reward you with beautiful blooms in the coming seasons.
