Hemerocallis ‘Diva’s Choice’ (Reblooming Daylily): A Complete Guide
Hemerocallis ‘Diva’s Choice’ is a stunning and dependable daylily variety that adds elegance and beauty to any garden landscape. This reblooming daylily is cherished for its exquisite flowers, low maintenance requirements, and versatility in various growing conditions.
In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into the characteristics, care tips, uses, growing conditions, and other important aspects of Hemerocallis ‘Diva’s Choice’. Whether you are an experienced gardener or a novice enthusiast, this guide will equip you with the knowledge and insights needed to cultivate and appreciate this remarkable plant.
Hemerocallis ‘Diva’s Choice’ Characteristics
- Plant Type: Perennial
- Bloom Time: Early to late summer, with intermittent reblooms
- Mature Height: 18-24 inches
- Mature Spread: 18-24 inches
- Foliage: Semi-Evergreen
- Flower Color: Shades of pink with a dramatic eyezone
- Fragrance: Light, sweet scent
- Hardiness Zones: 3-9
- Special Features: Reblooming, Attracts Hummingbirds and Butterflies
Hemerocallis ‘Diva’s Choice’ is indeed a standout plant with its captivating features, making it a popular choice for gardeners seeking a vibrant and low-maintenance addition to their outdoor spaces.
Key Takeaways – Hemerocallis ‘Diva’s Choice’ (Reblooming Daylily)
Before we delve into the detailed aspects of Hemerocallis ‘Diva’s Choice’, here are some key takeaways about this remarkable plant:
- Reblooming Daylily variety.
- Low maintenance and easy to grow.
- Attracts pollinators like hummingbirds and butterflies.
- Thrives in a variety of soil conditions.
- Adds vibrant color and elegance to garden landscapes.
- Suitable for borders, containers, and mass plantings.
Now, let’s explore the various facets of Hemerocallis ‘Diva’s Choice’ in detail.
Culture
Uses
Hemerocallis ‘Diva’s Choice’ is a versatile plant that can be used in various landscaping and garden design applications. Its uses include:
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Border Planting: The vibrant and prolific blooms of ‘Diva’s Choice’ make it an ideal candidate for border plantings. Whether used in a single row or in clusters, it adds a touch of elegance to garden borders.
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Mass Plantings: The lush foliage and abundant blooms of this daylily make it suitable for mass plantings in larger garden areas. When planted en masse, it creates a stunning visual impact, especially when in full bloom.
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Container Gardening: ‘Diva’s Choice’ can be grown in containers, bringing its beauty to patios, balconies, or any area with limited garden space. It adds a pop of color and interest to container arrangements.
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Cut Flower Gardens: The long stems of Hemerocallis ‘Diva’s Choice’ make it an excellent choice for cut flower gardens. Its blossoms can be used to create captivating floral arrangements, bringing the beauty of the garden indoors.
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Erosion Control: Due to its spreading nature, ‘Diva’s Choice’ can help with erosion control on slopes and embankments, providing both aesthetic appeal and soil stabilization.
Water
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Watering Needs: Hemerocallis ‘Diva’s Choice’ has moderate water needs. It should be watered regularly, especially during dry spells, to ensure sufficient moisture for healthy growth and abundant blooming.
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Soil Moisture: Well-draining soil is essential to prevent waterlogging, which can lead to root rot. However, it’s important to maintain consistent soil moisture, particularly during the plant’s active growth periods.
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Irrigation: Drip irrigation or soaker hoses are effective methods for watering daylilies, ensuring that the water reaches the roots without wetting the foliage excessively.
Sunlight
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Sun Exposure: ‘Diva’s Choice’ daylilies thrive in full sun to partial shade. They require at least 6 hours of direct sunlight each day to promote vigorous growth and prolific blooming.
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Shade Tolerance: While they prefer full sun, these daylilies can tolerate partial shade, especially in hotter climates where some protection from the intense midday sun can be beneficial.
Fertilizer
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Fertilization Schedule: Daylilies, including Hemerocallis ‘Diva’s Choice’, benefit from regular fertilization to support their growth and blooming. Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring as new growth emerges, and then again after the first wave of flowering.
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Nutrient Requirements: A fertilizer with an N-P-K ratio of 10-10-10 or similar is suitable for daylilies. This balanced formula provides essential nutrients for healthy foliage and robust blooms.
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Organic Fertilizers: Organic options such as compost and well-rotted manure can also be used to enrich the soil and provide a steady source of nutrients for the plants.
Soil
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Soil Type: ‘Diva’s Choice’ daylilies are adaptable to a range of soil types, but they thrive in well-draining, loamy soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH.
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Soil Preparation: Prior to planting, amend the soil with organic matter to improve its structure and fertility. This can include compost, peat moss, or well-rotted manure to create an optimal growing environment for the daylilies.
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Soil pH: Aim for a soil pH level between 6.0 and 6.5, which is conducive to nutrient availability and overall plant health.
Pruning
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Deadheading: Regular deadheading, or the removal of spent blossoms, can encourage the production of additional blooms in Hemerocallis ‘Diva’s Choice’. This practice also helps maintain a neat and tidy appearance in the garden bed.
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Foliage Cleanup: Removing yellowing or withered foliage helps prevent the spread of diseases and promotes the overall aesthetics of the plantings.
Propagation
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Division: Hemerocallis ‘Diva’s Choice’ can be propagated through division, a process usually carried out in early spring before new growth begins. Divide established clumps every 3-5 years to rejuvenate the plants and maintain their vigor.
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Propagation by Division:
- Dig up the entire clump, gently loosening the soil around it.
- Use a sharp knife or spade to divide the clump into smaller sections, ensuring that each division has healthy roots and several growing points (fans).
- Replant the divisions at the appropriate spacing, ensuring that the roots are well-established in the soil and water thoroughly.
Container Popularity
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Container Size: When growing Hemerocallis ‘Diva’s Choice’ in containers, use pots or planters that provide ample room for root development. A minimum container size of 12-16 inches in diameter and depth is suitable for a single plant.
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Container Material: Choose containers made from durable materials such as ceramic, fiberglass, or concrete. These materials provide stability and insulation for the plants, which is especially important during temperature fluctuations.
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Drainage: Proper drainage is essential for container-grown daylilies. Ensure that the containers have drainage holes to prevent waterlogging, and use a well-draining potting mix to promote healthy root growth.
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Maintenance: Monitor container-grown daylilies for moisture levels, as they may dry out more quickly than plants in the ground. Regular watering, especially during hot and dry periods, is essential for their well-being.
Common Diseases
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Leaf Streak: This fungal disease is characterized by long, narrow, yellow streaks on the foliage. It can be managed through good sanitation practices, including the removal and disposal of infected leaves, and the application of fungicidal treatments if necessary.
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Crown Rot: Excessive soil moisture can lead to crown rot, a condition where the crown and base of the plant become soft and discolored. Ensure proper drainage and avoid overwatering to prevent this disease.
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Rust: Rust appears as small, rusty-colored spots on the foliage and can impact the overall vigor of the plants. Treatments with fungicides may be necessary in severe cases, and removing and disposing of affected foliage can help minimize its spread.
Disease Diagnosis
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Visual Symptoms: Carefully inspect the foliage, stems, and blooms for any signs of discoloration, spots, or unusual growth patterns. Diagnosing diseases early allows for timely intervention and management.
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Consulting Experts: If unsure about a specific disease or its management, consult with local extension services, plant pathology experts, or experienced horticulturists for accurate diagnosis and targeted treatment options.
Common Pests
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Aphids: These small, soft-bodied insects can cluster on the foliage and flower buds, sucking sap from the plants. Control aphid infestations through insecticidal soaps, horticultural oils, or natural predators such as ladybugs.
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Thrips: Thrips cause stippling and distortion of the foliage and may affect the blooms of daylilies. Regular monitoring and the use of insecticidal treatments can help manage thrips populations effectively.
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Spider Mites: These tiny arachnids can cause webbing on the foliage and diminish the plant’s vigor. Miticides or strong sprays of water can be used to control spider mite infestations.
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Slugs and Snails: These mollusks can feed on the tender foliage and flowers of daylilies. Handpicking, barriers, and slug baits are effective methods for managing slug and snail populations in the garden.
Botanist’s Tips
To ensure the optimal growth and performance of Hemerocallis ‘Diva’s Choice’, consider the following tips and recommendations:
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Mulching: Apply a layer of organic mulch around the base of the plants to conserve soil moisture, suppress weed growth, and moderate soil temperatures.
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Air Circulation: Adequate air circulation around daylilies helps prevent the development of foliar diseases. Plant them at appropriate spacing and avoid overcrowding to promote good air movement.
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Regular Inspection: Periodically inspect your daylilies for signs of pests, diseases, and nutrient deficiencies. Early detection allows for prompt intervention and mitigates potential damage to the plants.
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Winter Care: In regions with cold winters, provide a protective layer of mulch or leaves over the daylilies’ crown and root zone to insulate them from extreme temperatures and frost heaving.
Fun Facts
Did you know?
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Hemerocallis ‘Diva’s Choice’ belongs to the genus Hemerocallis, which comes from the Greek words “hemera,” meaning day, and “kalos,” meaning beautiful. This name reflects the characteristic of each flower lasting only one day, but being exceptionally beautiful.
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Daylilies are not true lilies. They belong to the family Hemerocallidaceae and are distinct from plants in the family Liliaceae, which includes true lilies.
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‘Diva’s Choice’ exhibits a range of flower colors and patterns, making each bloom a captivating and unique display of nature’s artistry.
Now that we have explored the cultural aspects, uses, and maintenance of Hemerocallis ‘Diva’s Choice’, let’s delve deeper into its characteristics, landscape design ideas, and how to ensure its optimal performance in various garden settings.
Hemerocallis ‘Diva’s Choice’ Landscape Ideas
Garden Borders and Edging
Hemerocallis ‘Diva’s Choice’ adds a vibrant and colorful touch to garden borders and edging. Its moderate height and continuous blooms make it an ideal choice for creating visually appealing borders that bring a sense of refinement and liveliness to the landscape. Whether planted in straight or curved borders, the elegant blooms of ‘Diva’s Choice’ serve as a captivating focal point.
Mixed Perennial Beds
In mixed perennial beds, the striking flowers of Hemerocallis ‘Diva’s Choice’ can be showcased alongside other flowering perennials and ornamental grasses. Pairing it with plants of varying heights, textures, and bloom times creates dynamic and visually engaging plant compositions. Consider combining it with ornamental salvias, coneflowers, rudbeckias, and perennial grasses for a diverse and colorful display.
Pollinator Gardens
The nectar-rich blossoms of ‘Diva’s Choice’ attract pollinators such as hummingbirds and butterflies, making it an excellent addition to pollinator-friendly gardens. Incorporate this daylily variety into a dedicated pollinator garden to create a haven for beneficial insects and flying visitors while enjoying the beauty of the blooming flowers.
Container Plantings
For those with limited garden space, Hemerocallis ‘Diva’s Choice’ thrives in container plantings. Whether placed on a patio, deck, or balcony, its striking blooms and lush foliage enhance the visual appeal of outdoor spaces. Select decorative containers that complement the flower colors, and mix in complementary trailing or upright companions to create eye-catching container displays.
Naturalized Settings
In more informal or naturalized settings, ‘Diva’s Choice’ daylilies can be planted en masse to create swathes of color and texture. These naturalized plantings are particularly effective in open meadows, gentle slopes, or along the edges of woodlands, providing a seamless transition of colors in the landscape.
Reblooming Daylily ‘Diva’s Choice’ Growing Conditions
Bloom Time
Hemerocallis ‘Diva’s Choice’ typically blooms in early to late summer, showcasing its captivating flowers for an extended period. Due to its reblooming nature, the plant may produce intermittent blooms throughout the growing season, adding an element of surprise and delight to the garden.
Landscape Design Tips
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Color Contrasts: The pink blooms of ‘Diva’s Choice’ can be juxtaposed with plants featuring contrasting foliage colors or complementary flower hues to create visually stunning and harmonious combinations in the landscape.
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Repeating Patterns: Planting ‘Diva’s Choice’ in repetitive groupings or drifts across the garden bed creates a sense of continuity and rhythm, elevating the overall aesthetics of the planting design.
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Mixed Plantings: Intermingle ‘Diva’s Choice’ with other daylily varieties, ornamental grasses, or perennial companions to create visually diverse and captivating arrangements that evolve throughout the seasons.
Maintenance
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Dividing Clumps: As the clumps of Hemerocallis ‘Diva’s Choice’ grow, consider dividing them every few years to rejuvenate the plants and ensure continuous vigor and blooming performance.
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Weed Control: Regular weeding and mulching help maintain weed-free planting beds, allowing the daylilies to thrive while minimizing competition for essential resources.
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Fertilization Schedule: Adhere to a regular fertilization schedule to provide the necessary nutrients for healthy foliage and prolific blooming, ensuring that the plants remain robust and vibrant throughout the growing season.
Reblooming Daylily ‘Diva’s Choice’ – Hemerocallis in Gardens
Including Hemerocallis ‘Diva’s Choice’ in garden landscapes offers numerous benefits and opportunities for creative expression.
Focal Points
The striking blooms and elegant foliage of ‘Diva’s Choice’ can serve as captivating focal points within garden beds, drawing the attention of visitors and providing visual interest throughout the blooming season.
Transitional Elements
Integrating ‘Diva’s Choice’ within transitional areas, such as between pathways, around seating areas, or near garden structures, adds a sense of natural beauty and elegance that enhances the overall garden experience.
Mixed Combinations
Pairing ‘Diva’s Choice’ with a diverse selection of plants, including perennials, shrubs, and ornamental grasses, creates visually appealing mixed combinations that offer seasonal interest and prolonged visual impact.
Textural Contrast
The broad, strap-like foliage of ‘Diva’s Choice’ can be juxtaposed with plants that feature contrasting textures and leaf forms, enriching the overall landscape with a dynamic interplay of visual and tactile elements.
Seasonal Appeal
With its reblooming nature and abundant flowers, Hemerocallis ‘Diva’s Choice’ enlivens and enriches garden spaces, providing seasonal charm and enduring beauty that residents and visitors can enjoy throughout the year.
Links to External Resources
For those interested in delving deeper into the world of Hemerocallis ‘Diva’s Choice’ and daylilies in general, here are valuable external resources with additional insights and information:
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American Hemerocallis Society (AHS): The American Hemerocallis Society provides a wealth of resources, including educational materials, regional gardening guides, and information on daylily cultivation and hybridization.
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Daylily Hybridizers and Growers Association (DHGA): The DHGA is a valuable source of knowledge, featuring articles, research updates, and a network of experienced growers, hybridizers, and enthusiasts sharing their expertise on daylilies.
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Local Gardening Organizations and Clubs: Joining local gardening organizations and clubs provides opportunities to learn from experienced gardeners, participate in workshops and events, and gain insights into the cultivation and care of daylilies in specific regional climates.
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University Cooperative Extension Services: Cooperative extension services, offered by land-grant universities, provide research-based information, workshops, and publications on horticulture, gardening, and plant care, tailored to local and regional conditions.
These resources offer a wealth of knowledge and guidance for gardeners, enthusiasts, and professionals seeking to expand their understanding of daylilies, including Hemerocallis ‘Diva’s Choice’, and enhance their horticultural practices.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Hemerocallis ‘Diva’s Choice’ stands as a superb choice for gardeners seeking an alluring, low-maintenance, and versatile perennial for their landscapes. With its captivating blooms, reblooming nature, and adaptability to various growing conditions, this daylily variety offers a multitude of landscape design opportunities and rewards.
By understanding and implementing the cultural considerations, maintenance tips, and landscape design ideas discussed in this comprehensive guide, you can cultivate and enjoy the beauty, elegance, and seasonal charm that Hemerocallis ‘Diva’s Choice’ brings to your garden spaces.
As you embark on your journey of growing and appreciating Hemerocallis ‘Diva’s Choice’, remember that the joy of gardening lies not only in the beauty of the plants, but also in the sense of connection, creativity, and mindfulness that they inspire.
We hope this guide serves as a valuable resource and inspiration for your endeavors in nurturing and celebrating the remarkable beauty and resilience of Hemerocallis ‘Diva’s Choice’ in your gardens and landscapes.
Happy gardening!
The blog post presents a comprehensive guide to Hemerocallis ‘Diva’s Choice’ (Reblooming Daylily), covering its characteristics, cultural considerations, landscape uses, and maintenance tips. The content includes detailed insights into plant care, propagation, disease management, landscaping ideas, and resources for further exploration, catering to both novice gardeners and experienced enthusiasts. The comprehensive nature of the guide ensures that readers gain a thorough understanding of Hemerocallis ‘Diva’s Choice’ and are equipped with the knowledge to
