Daylilies are a popular perennial known for their vibrant blooms and easy maintenance. Growing daylilies from root cutting sections is a simple and effective way to propagate these beautiful plants. Here’s a detailed guide on how to grow daylilies using root cutting sections.
Materials Needed
- Healthy daylily plant
- Sharp knife or garden shears
- Rooting hormone (optional)
- Planting pots with drainage holes
- Potting soil
- Water
- Plastic bag or clear plastic bottle
Step-by-Step Guide
1. Selecting and Preparing the Root Cuttings
Choose a Healthy Plant:
- Select a Mature Daylily: Choose a healthy, mature daylily plant that has been growing for at least a couple of years. This ensures that the plant has a well-developed root system.
Digging Up the Plant:
- Dig Carefully: Use a garden fork or spade to carefully dig around the daylily clump, lifting it from the ground. Avoid damaging the roots.
Prepare the Root Cuttings:
- Clean the Roots: Gently shake off excess soil and rinse the roots with water to remove any remaining soil.
- Divide the Roots: Use a sharp knife or garden shears to cut the roots into sections. Each section should have at least one fan of leaves and a healthy root system. Ensure each cutting is about 4-6 inches long.
2. Preparing the Root Cuttings for Planting
Optional Rooting Hormone:
- Dip in Rooting Hormone: If you have rooting hormone, dip the cut ends of the root sections into it. This step can enhance root development but is not strictly necessary.
3. Planting the Root Cuttings
Prepare the Pots:
- Potting Mix: Fill planting pots with a well-draining potting mix. A mix designed for perennials or general garden soil works well.
- Plant the Root Cuttings: Make a hole in the potting mix and plant each root cutting with the cut end down and the fan of leaves above the soil. Ensure the crown (where the leaves meet the roots) is just above the soil level.
Watering:
- Moisten the Soil: Water the soil thoroughly to settle it around the roots. Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.
4. Creating a Humid Environment
Moisture Retention:
- Cover with Plastic: Place a plastic bag over the pots or use a clear plastic bottle with the bottom cut off to cover the cuttings. This creates a humid environment that promotes root growth.
- Ventilation: Ensure there is some ventilation to prevent mold growth. You can poke small holes in the plastic bag or leave the bottle cap off.
5. Caring for the Root Cuttings
Light and Temperature:
- Indirect Sunlight: Place the pots in a location with bright, indirect sunlight. Avoid direct sunlight, which can be too harsh for the new cuttings.
- Warm Environment: Keep the pots in a warm area, ideally between 65-75°F (18-24°C).
Watering:
- Consistent Moisture: Check the soil regularly and water as needed to keep it moist but not soggy.
6. Monitoring Growth
Check for New Growth:
- Patience: It may take several weeks to a couple of months for new growth to appear. Look for new shoots emerging from the crown.
- Transplanting: Once the cuttings have established roots and new growth, they can be transplanted to their permanent location in the garden.
7. Transplanting to the Garden
Choose a Planting Site:
- Sunlight: Daylilies thrive in full sun but can tolerate partial shade. Choose a site that receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily.
- Soil: Ensure the soil is well-draining. If necessary, amend the soil with compost or sand to improve drainage.
Planting Steps:
- Prepare the Soil: Dig a hole large enough to accommodate the root system of the daylily cutting.
- Plant the Cutting: Place the daylily cutting in the hole, ensuring the crown is at soil level. Fill in with soil and firm it gently around the roots.
- Water Thoroughly: Water the newly planted daylily to help settle the soil and eliminate air pockets.
8. Long-Term Care
Watering:
- Regular Watering: Water the daylilies deeply but infrequently. Allow the soil to dry out between waterings to prevent root rot.
Fertilizing:
- Balanced Fertilizer: Feed your daylilies with a balanced fertilizer in early spring and again after the first bloom to promote continuous flowering.
Mulching:
- Retain Moisture: Apply a layer of mulch around the base of the daylilies to retain moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature.
Pruning:
- Deadheading: Remove spent blooms to encourage more flowers and prevent seed formation.
- Trim Leaves: Trim back the foliage after the first frost to clean up the garden and prepare the plant for winter dormancy.
By following these steps, you can successfully grow daylilies from root cutting sections and enjoy their beautiful blooms in your garden. This propagation method is not only economical but also allows you to expand your collection of daylilies easily.