How Do I Grow Daylilies in Containers

Wash a large container that is at least 18 inches deep with soapy water. Rinse with 1 part bleach mixed with 9 parts water. Fill the container with 3 parts potting soil and 1 part compost. Plant the daylilies as deep as they were growing in their original containers. Plant the rhizome-type bulbs 6 to 12 inches apart.

Spread a 2- to 3-inch layer of mulch over the surface of the container. Use pine needles, pine bark or shredded leaves. Mulch reduces the loss of soil moisture and regulates the soil temperature.

Place the daylily container in an area with full to partial sun. Pastel-colored varieties of daylilies flower best in full sun, while brilliant-colored daylilies keep their color best when grown in an area with afternoon shade.

Feed daylilies in containers every two weeks with half-strength water-soluble 5-10-5 or 6-12-12 fertilizer. The numbers indicate the percentages of nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium in the fertilizer. For the best growth and flower production, feed only during the growing season. When daylilies are dormant, they do not need fertilizing.

Water the daylilies once or twice a week. To promote vigorous flowering, keep the soil moist throughout the growing season. Let the soil dry out while the daylilies are dormant during the winter.

Place the container in an area protected from winter temperatures. Keep the containers on covered porches or in garden sheds away from harsh weather. If the temperatures drop below freezing, surround the plant pots with straw.