First Daylily of the Season

I have a great appreciation for day lilies. For years I thought they were rather run-of-the-mill, everyday plants that occupied parking lot planters and only came in a bright gold color.

Now I have learned to appreciate their simple beauty, easy requirements, long bloom cycles and pest free nature.

Although the nurseries around here have started to carry more than the Stella D'Oro varieties, I still find the selection much more fun through mail order.

Occasionally I order a variety that requires a dormant period and chillier temperatures than we have here, but the day lily vendors typically will alert me and suggest another flower similar but more culturally appropriate.