Hemerocallis Happy returns

Hemerocallis ‘Happy Returns’ is one of those plants that earns its space in the garden year after year. This cheerful daylily produces masses of buttery lemon-yellow flowers with a soft fragrance, held above neat, arching clumps of fresh green, strap-like foliage. Each bloom lasts just a day (hence daylily), but don’t worry—‘Happy Returns’ is famous for producing flower after flower for weeks on end, often repeating right through summer.

It’s a brilliant low-maintenance perennial that copes with most soils, shrugs off summer heat once established, and is reliably hardy. Daylilies are also known for being excellent “doers” in the garden—strong growers that bulk up into handsome clumps, helping to fill borders quickly. Perfect for mixed borders, cottage gardens, or planting in generous drifts, ‘Happy Returns’ is also a great choice for pollinators and looks lovely paired with grasses, salvias, geraniums and nepeta.

Planting Instructions

When to Plant:

Plant bare roots in spring or autumn, while the soil is moist and workable, avoiding periods when the ground is frozen or waterlogged.

Where to Plant:
Choose a position in full sun for the best flowering (it will tolerate light shade). Plant in fertile, moisture-retentive but well-drained soil. Hemerocallis is a brilliant choice for mixed borders, cottage gardens, wildlife-friendly planting and even larger containers.

How to Plant:

• Depth: Plant so the crown sits about 2–3 cm below the soil surface, with the roots spread out naturally.
• Spacing: Space 40–60 cm (16–24 inches) apart to allow clumps to bulk up over time.
• Soil Prep: Improve the soil with well-rotted compost or organic matter to support strong growth and repeat flowering.

Watering:
Water well after planting and keep watered during the first growing season. Once established, Hemerocallis is fairly tolerant, but it will flower best if kept evenly moist during dry spells.

Aftercare Tips:

• Deadhead spent flowers to keep plants tidy and encourage more blooms.
• Remove any yellowing foliage and cut back to ground level in autumn or early spring.
• Divide clumps every 3–5 years in spring or autumn to maintain vigour and increase your stock.

Top Tip:
Although each flower only lasts a day, ‘Happy Returns’ produces lots of buds for a long display—think of it as a plant that “puts on a fresh show every morning”! Plant in groups for the best impact and pair with ornamental grasses, Salvias and Geraniums for an easy, long-flowering border.

Plant Details

Flowering Period:

June - September (often repeat flowering)

Height:
18–24" (45–60cm)

Position:
Full sun / light shade

Hardy Perennial