From the seller's point of view, the way a plant leaves and the way it arrives are sometimes two different things. I agree the plants shown above don't look so great but sometimes USPS or whatever carrier the seller uses may go awry, despite our best intentions. Once a buyer had moved and hadn't bother to let me or the Lily Auction know of their new address and the package was returned to me over a week later. It sure didn't look the same way it had left here after over a week in the mail system. I was horrified! We always pray that plants will arrive within 3-4 days after they are shipped and then if freshly dug, they should be OK. I always soak plants before planting.
Daylilies are resilient and even when the foliage arrives looking ratty, I always look at the ROOTS first and foremost. If the root system is good, the plant will make it 99 times out of 100. As a seller, I try to send plants that I would like to receive. Plants grown here are not pumped up with water or fertilizers they might be from some professional nurseries, but they generally are grown well. I have some pics of daylilies dug for shipping but naturally can't find them right now. Will add if I can find them.
Once a new expensive plant I'd ordered from Luddy L. got lost in the mail. Rachel and I were both very concerned but it finally arrived here about 10 days after shipping. It looked deader than a doornail but I soaked it for a while and then planted it and it indeed survived.
It is also wise ( sorry I've probably said this here before!) to remember to water new plants in thoroughly and then LEAVE THEM ALONE!! Do not over water. Resist that urge to water new plants every day!!! Twice a week is sufficient if you've planted them in the ground rather than in pots. The majority of new plants are killed by over watering, as a very wise daylily breeder taught me many years ago, and I have always followed his advice about watering.
