Becky - if you're thinking about using slow release pellets in a hot, dry environment such as yours, then might I recommend something organic. this will virtually eliminate the threat of burning the roots. even better in my opinion, and much easier to apply as well, a diluted organic liquid fertilizer can be used while you do your regular watering. as I mentioned above, we use organic 5-1-1 liquid fish, as well as 0-5-5 liquid phosphate. both diluted to about 25% and used as needed during our everyday watering schedule. I would wait until your daylilies are done flowering to start using any supplemental nitrogen fertilizer however. that's when the rhizomes will start storing up energy for next years growth. while we're on the subject of watering, soaker hoses work wonders for getting down to the roots, if that's something you're having trouble with as you mentioned. we use them for 90% of our watering needs. then we apply our diluted liquid fish by hand as needed. seems to work very well. although admittedly we use it mostly in our many shade/hosta gardens.
