How to Plant Daylilies in a Pot

Daylilies are beautiful, hardy plants that produce bright and colorful blooms. These easy-to-grow perennials are perfect for container gardening and can be planted in pots to add color and texture to patios, balconies, and small gardens.

Choosing the Right Pot

The first step in planting daylilies in a pot is to choose the right container. Daylilies prefer well-drained soil, so choose a pot that has several drainage holes at the bottom. A pot that is about 12-16 inches in diameter and 12-16 inches deep is ideal for planting one or two daylily plants.

Preparing the Potting Mix

Next, you'll need to prepare the potting mix. Use a good-quality potting mix that is specifically formulated for container gardening. Add some perlite or coarse sand to the mix to improve drainage. Mix the potting mix and perlite or sand thoroughly.

Planting Daylilies in the Pot

The next step is to plant your daylilies in the pot. Fill the pot with the potting mix and level it off. Plant the daylily in the potting mix, making sure that the crown of the plant (where the leaves emerge) is at soil level. Gently press the soil around the roots to remove any air pockets. Water the plant well.

Caring for Your Daylilies

After planting, keep the soil moderately moist, but not overly wet. Water the plant deeply about once a week, depending on the weather conditions. Allow the soil to dry out slightly between watering. Fertilize the daylilies with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer once a month during the growing season. Deadhead the spent blooms to encourage more flowers to develop.

Overwintering Daylilies

If you live in a cold climate, you'll need to protect your daylilies over the winter. One option is to bring the pot indoors and store it in a cool, dry place, such as a garage or basement. Another option is to leave the pot outside and mulch heavily around it. Cover the top of the potting mix with mulch or straw to protect the roots from freezing.

In conclusion, planting daylilies in a pot is easy and rewarding. With the right pot, potting mix, and care, your daylilies should thrive and produce beautiful blooms year after year.