Proliferations

Proliferations (prolif.) are small plantlets that grow naturally on some Daylilies. Some proliferations actually produce scapes and bloom as well. They will be found growing from a leaf bract on the scape. These plantlets are genetically the same  as the parent plant. This is a great source of free plants. They become very valuable if produced from new very expensive Daylilies. Your proliferation will live as long a the scape remains green. It is important to leave the proliferation connected to the scape as long possible. If the proliferation  remains long enough to develop roots, it a simple process to keep the plant alive. The length of time a scape remains green can be controlled, by setting a seedpod on the scape. See our Hybridizing Page for instructions. Leave the proliferation on the scape as long a possible.

 If roots have developed simple leave the proliferation attaches as long as the scape is green. As the scape dies it will start turning brown from the top. When the brown reaches the proliferation it must be removed. Cut the top of the scape slightly above the proliferation. Then cut the scape 1 inch below the proliferation. The additional 1 inch of scape will provide an anchor when planting the small plant in the soil. cut the foliage back as soon as the proliferation is harvested so the plant does not have to try to support all the extra foliage. If it is a small proliferation, you may want to cut it back to about 2", and leave the length on larger ones about 4".

If roots fail to form on your proliferation  cut the scape 2-3 inches below the proliferation, and insert into a container of water, with the water covering the bottom of the proliferation  Use a very weak solution of a water-soluble balanced fertilizer, like 8-8-8. The water should be checked daily to maintain the original level. It is also recommended to change the water every couple of days. Another method of encouraging roots is to plant the proliferation in  sand, insert the proliferation in the sand and keep it moist. Rooting Hormone can be placed on the crown before planting in sand.

Once roots are established they can be planted next to the mother plant or grown in pots. DO NOT over water the proliferations they will rot if you do. The soil should be well drained, with sand and perlite. I always place my proliferations in pots in the shade of a tree, because it is always very hot when proliferations are harvested here.

You can expect proliferation to bloom within 2 years of harvesting.