Troubleshooting
Daylily 'Little Grapette' problems — and how to fix them
Daylily 'Little Grapette' (Hemerocallis 'Little Grapette') is generally forgiving once you match its basics, but a few issues come up again and again. Here is what each one looks like, why it happens, and the fix.
Rootbound in containers
The prolific, fibrous root system fills containers quickly. Repot or divide every 1-2 years to prevent stunted growth and reduced flowering in container-grown plants.
Purple colour fading
In very hot climates above 35°C the rich purple tones bleach to lavender-blue. Move containers to a sheltered spot with afternoon shade during heat waves.
Gall midge
Contarinia quinquenotata larvae cause swollen, aborted buds — particularly problematic given the large number of buds produced by this prolific cultivar. Remove and destroy all affected buds promptly.
Aphids
Attracted to the multiple buds on well-branched scapes. Monitor regularly and treat with insecticidal soap or water jet at first sign of colonies.
Rust
Puccinia hemerocallidis pustules on leaves. Remove affected foliage and treat with an appropriate fungicide if infection spreads beyond a few leaves.
Prevent daylily 'little grapette' problems before they start
Most daylily 'little grapette' issues are care-mismatch, not bad luck. Dial in the basics:
Daylily 'Little Grapette' problems — FAQ
Why is my daylily 'little grapette' rootbound in containers?
The prolific, fibrous root system fills containers quickly. Repot or divide every 1-2 years to prevent stunted growth and reduced flowering in container-grown plants.
Why is my daylily 'little grapette' purple colour fading?
In very hot climates above 35°C the rich purple tones bleach to lavender-blue. Move containers to a sheltered spot with afternoon shade during heat waves.
Why is my daylily 'little grapette' gall midge?
Contarinia quinquenotata larvae cause swollen, aborted buds — particularly problematic given the large number of buds produced by this prolific cultivar. Remove and destroy all affected buds promptly.
Why is my daylily 'little grapette' aphids?
Attracted to the multiple buds on well-branched scapes. Monitor regularly and treat with insecticidal soap or water jet at first sign of colonies.
Why is my daylily 'little grapette' rust?
Puccinia hemerocallidis pustules on leaves. Remove affected foliage and treat with an appropriate fungicide if infection spreads beyond a few leaves.