Question
I live in Perth Western Aust. and would like to know how to propagate day lillies from seeds and when is the best time to plant them into the garden.

Answer
Propagating from seed is a relatively easy process. Once the flowers are spent, they will form seed pods. Once the pods swell, it is time to cut the pod before it breaks open on its own. You should then place the pods in a paper bag and allow it to dry for several days. Transfer them at this point to a sealed ziplock bag and place it in the refrigerator. You must store seeds in this manner for a minimum of three months to simulate the dormant period needed for germination.

When you are ready to sow the seeds next spring, you can shake the bag until the seeds dislodge. Sow them as you would any other seed.   

Note: Soaking seeds in tepid water does help speed germination, but you need to be careful as soaking them too long can cause them to rot. I never soak small seeds, but do soak the larger ones, such as sunflower seeds, for four hours in lukewarm water.

I would offer one word of caution about propagating from seed. Seeds grown from your own plants will not necessarily inherit the same traits as the parent plant. The majority of plants sold today are hybrids. Hybrids are bred for specific colors, growing habits, and disease resistance not found in heirloom plants. Hybrid seed are genetically created from two different parent plants by breeders for the characteristics described on the seed packet. You should only propagate your own seed if they are harvested from heirlooms or open-pollinated varieties. These plants will produce seed which will replicate the characteristics of the parent plant. If unsure, you should assume they are hybrids.

A better alternative is propagating from cuttings. Simply cut a tender shoot that is at least six inches long. Remove the lower sets of leaves. Dip the cutting in a rooting compound. You can purchase this product at any garden center. Stick the cutting one inch into a good potting mix. Be sure to thoroughly wet the soil prior to planting.

Finally, cover the pot with a clear piece of lightweight plastic. Place the pot in indirect sunlight on an east window sill or under fluorescent lighting. After two weeks, check to see if the plant has rooted by slightly pulling on the stem. If you feel resistance, remove the plastic covering, and be sure to keep the soil moist. The plant should then be treated as any other seedling.
  
Good luck, and please write again if you ever need assistance.  

Regards,  

Mike