Daylilies

I pretty much took the day off today. Sure...there was plenty to do, but I just didn't feel like doing it. So I dusted off my best procrastination skills and just hung out. After my hot tea, had a bagel and smoked salmon for breakfast.

Then lots of wandering around the backyard and patio (Thank goodness for the cold front that knocked temperatures back into the 80's.) checking out the newly fledged birds that come with their parents to the feeders. Looking at the ever-increasing number of butterflies that are visiting the buffet we've provided them. (And searching for caterpillars everywhere I can.)

But the stars of the garden show today were my daylilies. They're in their prime. Creamy pinks. Lemon yellows. Brilliant reds. Golden yellows. Bright oranges. Even a regal purple or two. And some of them are HUGE. Blooms that are easily as big as my hand spread out to its fullest. Many of them with ruffled and crinkly edges.

The idea that their magnificent beauty only lasts one day (hence their name) makes you want to savor every moment. And the good news is that with anywhere from two to seven blooms on a single stalk, they can put on a show for a week or more. Almost like a REALLY slow fireworks display.

The best news...they're very easy to grow. With a sunny spot and some decently fertile soil, you're on your way to your own show to enjoy. Their tuberous root system means they even get through periods of drought. And while they commonly freeze to the ground, they are dependable in reappearing every spring. Pests? With the exception of an aphid or two, I've never seen a bug remotely interested in them.

This is the perfect time to buy your plants. They're in full bloom in nurseries and garden centers; so you'll see what you're purchasing. Google your city's name and "daylily growers" or society and you're likely to find a club in your area that has periodic sales of some of their castoffs. You can also go to a reputable online mail-order nursery like Oakes in Tennessee. I have purchased many plants from them over the years and am always amazed at the size and quality of the plants they send. (And at their generosity in sending "bonus" plants to you as well.)

Tempted? Then get out there and get planting! You'll be glad you did.