Fertilizing Daylilies

Daylilies have a well-deserved reputation for being low maintenance, so you may wonder if you should fertilize your plants. Feeding or fertilizing Daylilies can promote new growth and more blooms, so you will be able to enjoy the beautiful flowers throughout the summer. Fertilizing new plants will help your Daylilies acclimate while fertilizing mature, established Daylilies can encourage the plant to push out more flowers.

healthy-daylily-plants-flowering.jpg

How to Fertilize Daylilies

Daylilies are very adaptable, but they do best in well-draining soil that falls between 6.2 and 6.8 pH. You can test the soil pH to determine if it is a good match or if it is necessary to address the pH using fertilizer. Fine-tuning the soil can help the plant thrive, and when it comes to Daylilies, that means more prolific blooms. 

Water Daylilies before fertilizing when using a water-soluble product or immediately after applying a granule product to prevent fertilizer burn, which can happen if the fertilizer comes into direct contact with the roots. When fertilizing Daylilies, follow the instructions on the container for best results.

Best Time To Fertilize Daylilies

Fertilize Daylilies throughout the growing season to support the plants and provide the best results. Feed the plants in the early spring, midsummer, and fall. This fertilizing schedule will promote growth at all stages and help prepare the plant to get through the winter.

Best Fertilizer For Daylilies

You have options when it comes to fertilizing Daylilies. You can amend the soil with compost or manure when planting the root clumps. Top dress the soil with compost or manure in the spring or use a high-nitrogen fertilizer, like Happy Frog All-Purpose Fertilizer or Espoma Organic Flower-tone. Another great organic option is Jobe's Organics 09627 Organic Fertilizer to boost Daylily growth and flower production. 

Daylily Fertilizing Tips

  • Use compost, manure, or a 3-1-2 mix fertilizer for Daylilies
  • Fertilize Daylilies in the spring, midsummer, and fall
  • Water when applying fertilizer to protect the roots from fertilizer burn

Warnings

-Always wear protective gloves and a face mask when handling chemical fertilizers.

-Closely follow all directions and storage guidelines that are on the fertilizer label.

 Alison Cotsonas Profile Pic

 Author Alison Cotsonas - Published 12-09-2021