Do Daylilies Make Good Cut Flowers?

Daylilies are a popular perennial flower grown in many gardens. Their colorful blooms and low-maintenance nature make them an attractive choice. But how do they fare as cut flowers for indoor arrangements? There are pros and cons to consider when using daylilies as cut flowers.

The Appeal of Daylilies

Daylilies (Hemerocallis spp.) are named for their flowers that typically last only one day. Each plant produces multiple flower stalks however with buds that open in succession over weeks. This provides a continuous supply of fresh blooms.

Daylilies come in a rainbow of colors including yellows, oranges, pinks, reds, and purples. The flowers have a casual, rustic appearance with their ruffled or curled petals. Certain varieties have a lovely fragrance as well.

These perennials are simple to grow in a sunny spot with well-drained soil. They tolerate heat drought pests, and diseases. Once planted, they generally require little care besides some pruning. Daylilies spread readily, filling in garden spaces.

Using Daylilies as Cut Flowers

The attributes that make daylilies ideal for landscaping can also apply to cut flowers Their loose, wildflower look gives arrangements a casual flair. The range of bright, saturated colors provides an vibrant element Scented varieties like ‘Hyperion’ bring fragrance indoors.

To use daylilies as cut flowers:

• Cut flower stalks in the morning once buds start to open.

• Make sure to cut stalks with multiple buds so new flowers continue opening over several days.

• Remove spent blooms daily and re-cut stems to prolong vase life.

• Combine daylilies with other long-lasting flowers like alstroemeria.

• Display arrangements in shallow bowls to support weak stems.

The Drawbacks of Daylilies as Cut Flowers

While daylilies have some merits as cut flowers, they also have limitations:

Short Vase Life

The blooms are ephemeral, lasting only 24 hours. Removing spent flowers and changing water daily are musts. Even then, cut stems rarely look good beyond 3-4 days.

Weak Stems

Daylily flower scapes are thin and tend to droop out of arrangements. Stems kink easily when bent. Special handling is required.

Limited Availability

Each plant produces only 1-2 stalks per bloom cycle. A large planting is needed to have enough flowers for regular cutting.

Evening Closure

Most daylily varieties close up their blooms at night or in cloudy weather. This prevents use in evening events.

Lack of Fragrance

While a few cultivars are scented, most daylilies lack discernible fragrance. This reduces their appeal for arrangements.

Plain Foliage

The thin, grassy leaves are unremarkable. Daylily greens don’t enhance arrangements like the leaves of other garden flowers.

Tips for Using Daylilies as Cut Flowers

If you already grow daylilies or find them at a farmers market, they can add a pop of color to arrangements. Here are some tips:

• Select fragrant, open-late varieties like ‘Hyperion,’ ‘Pandora’s Box,’ or ‘Royal Occasion.’

• Combine with solid-stemmed flowers that offset daylily weakness. Good partners are roses, carnations, or snapdragons.

• Cut and condition stems using commercial flower food. Re-cut under water every 1-2 days.

• Display in low, wide vases to provide support. Frogs or floral putty can help anchor stems.

• Use daylily blooms within 6 hours of cutting for maximum freshness.

• Refrigerate arrangements to extend bloom time.

• Remove stamens on open flowers to prevent pollen from staining tablecloths.

The Bottom Line on Daylilies for Cutting

Daylilies will likely play a supporting role rather than starring as cut flowers. Their fast-fading blooms and floppy stems limit their versatility in arrangements and require extra effort. Still, their profuse colors and casual form can be an asset in the right context. With some understanding of their nature, daylilies can find a place in fresh flower displays.