How to Grow Daylily
Perennial
Daylilies, or Hemerocallis, are tough clump-forming perennials with arching leaves and lily-like flowers. Each individual bloom lasts only one day, but a healthy plant carries many buds over several weeks. They cope well with typical UK conditions and offer an easy, colourful choice for sunny borders.
Planting
Plant container-grown daylilies in spring or early autumn, when soil is workable and plants can establish without drought stress. Choose sun or light shade and a reasonably fertile, moisture-retentive soil that does not remain waterlogged. Set the crown at soil level and space plants 45 to 60 cm apart. Water well after planting and through the first summer. In colder parts of Scotland, spring planting gives young plants a longer season to root.
Care
Water in prolonged dry weather, particularly while plants are forming buds, and mulch in spring with garden compost or well-rotted organic matter. Remove spent flowers daily if possible and cut off finished flowering stems to keep clumps neat. Divide congested plants in spring or early autumn every few years, replanting vigorous outer pieces. Clear old foliage in late winter before fresh growth begins.
Bloom time
Most daylilies flower from June to August, with later cultivars continuing into September in mild southern gardens. The sequence may begin later in cooler northern areas. Colours include yellow, orange, red, pink, purple and near-white, often with contrasting eyes or throats.
Garden uses
Daylilies suit sunny mixed borders, waterside planting and informal cottage gardens, where their strappy foliage provides a pleasing mound. Use them in groups for a stronger colour effect, or combine them with ornamental grasses and late-flowering perennials. Shorter cultivars also thrive in generous containers with regular watering.
Tips
Choose several cultivars with early, mid-season and late flowering to extend the display. Deadheading encourages a tidier appearance, although it will not make a single bloom last longer than its day. Avoid allowing dense clumps to become exhausted. Look for AGM varieties through the RHS or a local garden centre.
Growing Daylily: frequently asked questions
How do I grow daylily in the UK?
Plant container-grown daylilies in spring or early autumn, when soil is workable and plants can establish without drought stress.
When does daylily flower?
Most daylilies flower from June to August, with later cultivars continuing into September in mild southern gardens.
How do I care for daylily?
Water in prolonged dry weather, particularly while plants are forming buds, and mulch in spring with garden compost or well-rotted organic matter.
General guidance for UK gardens. Timing and hardiness vary by region and season; the RHS or a local garden centre can advise for your area. Page updated 18 Sep 2026.