Expert: Kenneth Joergensen - 8/6/2006

Question
I have sold my home in Michigan and would like to move several lilies to Florida. I need to dig them in the next 2 weeks and will take them to Florida in Oct. I have moved some already and they are doing well,but I did it in the fall.Can I dig them and remove dirt and keep them in a cool dry dark place? Thank You!
















1

Answer
Yes you can dig them, wash soil from the roots, and wrap the roots in moist newspaper. Then keep moist (wrap moist newspaper in plastic bags). Do not let the newspaper get wet (only moist).

It helps to cut the leaves back to a few inches above the crown.

When planting in florida, plant in morning sun or filtered sun (not hot afternoon sun). Amend the soil well with compost and water in well. Water frequently and regularily in the first few weeks after planting, and shade with make-shift screens made of cardboard, for example, to provide extra protection until the daylilies settle in.

FYI, daylilies are actual perennials and not a bulb

Regards
Kenneth