@Seedfork
I can identify with wanting DL that do well in your area. Do you know about the AHS Popularity Poll? Each Region in the national daylily organization votes on their favorites. The poll winners from your region should do well in your area because they were chosen by as favorites by people who live near you.
I would also suggest you visit AHS Display Gardens. Here's a link to a list the gardens in Region 14 (your region)
http://www.daylilies.org/AHSre... .
I'm a big researcher like you are. I've learned that it's important to do online research but nothing can show you what's what like seeing the plants themselves. Good luck!
You might also check out Dan Hansen and Ladybug Daylilies in Geneva, FL.
http://www.ladybugdaylilies.co...
He has a selection of bargain basement plants that sell for $9 a clump. He is usually very generous. He also loves newbies. When I was brand new I was blessed to live near Dan. He "adopted" me and taught me how to hybridize. I volunteered at his place for several years in exchange for seedling bed space and use of his plants for hybridizing. I owe a lot to him. You might give him a call and see which plants he suggests you start with. Tell him I (Leslie Mauck) sent you. He can be moody. If he's grouchy the first time you call give him a couple of days and try again. Full disclosure! LOL
