crown imperial

Crown imperials should be watered regularly and generously throughout their growing season in spring and summer. Water until the soil is fairly moist but not wet, then allow the soil to dry out slightly before providing more water. Avoid overwatering, as this can cause crown imperials to rot. In colder climates, water the plants only to keep the soil from completely drying out. Reduce watering slightly as temperatures cool in late summer and fall, and then finally stop watering during the plant's winter dormancy period.

Crown imperial (Fritillaria imperialis) prefers a bright location with full sun for at least 6 hours per day during the growing season. Full sun is defined as direct sunlight with no shade. The amount of sunlight and its duration are dependent on the hardiness zone and season in which the plant is growing. In areas that have abundant sunshine for most of the year (zone 8 and warmer), the crown imperial needs at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight daily throughout the entire growing season -- typically early spring through early summer. In areas with shorter periods of sunlight (zones 7 and cooler), it's beneficial to provide the plant with 8 to 10 hours of full sun a day when its in its prime growing season. For the early spring or late fall growing periods, it's beneficial to provide it with 4 to 5 hours of sun per day.

Crown imperial (Fritillaria imperialis) should be pruned regularly to keep it healthy and prevent it from becoming overcrowded or leggy. Pruning should take place in the spring shortly after flowering has finished. Removing older, dead or discolored leaves and the old flowering stem can help keep the plant looking tidy and allow for new growth. To encourage bushier growth, prune back any overgrown stems by half their length. This will help prevent overcrowding of foliage and help promote new growth. Always use a clean pair of sharp pruning shears and cut just above a leaf node or lateral bud. Avoid leaving long, bare stems as they are vulnerable to disease.