Perennial Flower

When to Plant Daylilies in Florida

Nearly indestructible perennials with stunning trumpet-shaped blooms. Each flower lasts just one day, but the show goes on for weeks.

The Short Answer

Daylilies grow well throughout Florida — unlike hostas, they handle the state's heat and humidity. Evergreen varieties provide year-round interest.

Florida Frost Dates

Your planting dates depend on which part of Florida you're in. Here are the frost date ranges by region:

Region Zones Last Frost (Spring) First Frost (Fall)
North Florida 8a, 8b, 9a Feb 15 - Mar 10 Nov 15 - Dec 10
Central Florida 9a, 9b, 10a Jan 15 - Feb 10 Dec 10 - Jan 5
South Florida 10a, 10b, 11a Rare Rare

Daylilies Planting Schedule for Florida

North Florida (Zones 8a, 8b, 9a)

Average last frost: Feb 15 - Mar 10 · Average first frost: Nov 15 - Dec 10

Transplant Outside
0 wks after frost

Central Florida (Zones 9a, 9b, 10a)

Average last frost: Jan 15 - Feb 10 · Average first frost: Dec 10 - Jan 5

Transplant Outside
0 wks after frost

South Florida (Zones 10a, 10b, 11a)

Average last frost: Rare · Average first frost: Rare

Transplant Outside
0 wks after frost

Growing Daylilies in Florida

State-Specific Growing Tips

Plant from October through March. Choose evergreen varieties for year-round foliage in Florida's warm climate. Full sun to partial shade. Once established, moderately drought-tolerant. UF/IFAS includes daylilies in their perennial recommendations for Florida.

Recommended Varieties for Florida

Evergreen types only — dormant varieties don't get enough cold for proper dormancy cycling. Stella de Oro (semi-evergreen), Buttered Popcorn, Strawberry Candy.

Common Challenges in Florida

Daylily rust in humid conditions. Aphids. Nematodes in sandy soils. Choose evergreen varieties — dormant types perform poorly in Florida.

Growing Tips

Plant bare-root or divisions in spring or fall. Divide clumps every 3-4 years to maintain vigor. Deadhead to keep gardens tidy.

Companion Planting

Plant daylilies alongside these companions for better growth:

Coneflowers Black Eyed Susans

The Bottom Line

Daylilies can be grown successfully in Florida with proper attention to regional frost dates and local growing conditions. Timing varies across the state — North Florida gardeners work with a last frost around Feb 15 - Mar 10, while South Florida sees frost end around Rare. Choose varieties suited to your region, amend your soil based on its specific needs, and monitor for the pests and diseases most common in your area. For exact dates based on your zip code, use our free planting date finder.
Note: All dates are based on NOAA 30-year Climate Normals and represent historical averages, not predictions for any specific year. Always check your local weather forecast before planting frost-sensitive crops. Learn about our data sources.

Last reviewed: March 29, 2026

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