Troubleshooting
Daylily 'Ruby Spider' problems — and how to fix them
Daylily 'Ruby Spider' (Hemerocallis 'Ruby Spider') 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.
Scape lodging (flopping)
Very tall scapes may need staking in windy sites. Use bamboo canes and ties; or choose a sheltered position.
Reduced bloom size without sun
Flowers are much smaller in partial shade. Full sun is non-negotiable for exhibition-sized blooms.
Daylily rust
Orange-yellow pustules on foliage; remove and destroy affected leaves, spray with systemic fungicide.
Crown rot in wet soils
Large cultivars are more prone to crown issues in poorly drained soil. Raise planting on a slight mound; improve drainage.
Clump decline after 5 years
Lift and divide in late summer to rejuvenate. Replant in deeply dug, manure-enriched soil.
Prevent daylily 'ruby spider' problems before they start
Most daylily 'ruby spider' issues are care-mismatch, not bad luck. Dial in the basics:
Daylily 'Ruby Spider' problems — FAQ
Why is my daylily 'ruby spider' scape lodging (flopping)?
Very tall scapes may need staking in windy sites. Use bamboo canes and ties; or choose a sheltered position.
Why is my daylily 'ruby spider' reduced bloom size without sun?
Flowers are much smaller in partial shade. Full sun is non-negotiable for exhibition-sized blooms.
Why is my daylily 'ruby spider' daylily rust?
Orange-yellow pustules on foliage; remove and destroy affected leaves, spray with systemic fungicide.
Why is my daylily 'ruby spider' crown rot in wet soils?
Large cultivars are more prone to crown issues in poorly drained soil. Raise planting on a slight mound; improve drainage.
Why is my daylily 'ruby spider' clump decline after 5 years?
Lift and divide in late summer to rejuvenate. Replant in deeply dug, manure-enriched soil.