I was really surprised by this thread,I prefer dips to TETs here in the UK as they seem to perform better. I have never had to support scapes and we get very heavywind and rains, I also use organic fertiliser (farmyard manure, alfalfa and seaweed.)

Most of my dips are older though, and I have mainly minis.

Wondering if daylily plant habits are deteriorating due to the emphasis on breeding for pattern/colour?

Yes

It seems as if every new color, form and pattern trend in daylilies is accompanied by the registration and introduction of an inordinate number of high-dollar bridge plants. I don't know much about the plant habits of patterned daylilies, because they're generally too heat-dependent with regard to pattern expression and flower opening, but I can say that there are plenty of ruddy-colored toothy dogs in this yard.

Once the initial excitement of any trend wears off, people begin to demand a more finished plant and flower, but by then, there's usually a new hare to chase. No wonder there are upwards of 75,000 registered cultivars.