Garden Tip 126:

I recently spoke of the importance of garden editing during the summer months to maintain the health and beauty of the landscape. One little project that can make a big difference, and one that is not always done, is the removal of old daylily flowers.

Daylilies are perennial plants whose flowers typically last just one day. These perennials add great color and interest to the summer garden and should be kept clean and fresh with the attention they deserve. Flowers of the day can be removed in the cool of the evening before they begin to pass (a great way to enjoy them up close and personal) or they can be removed the following morning as they begin to collapse.

The old flowers break down quickly and are a great candidate for composting in place. A great summer perennial, there are over 100,000 registered daylily cultivars to choose from!