crown imperial

Crown imperials should be watered regularly during the growing season to ensure that the soil remains moist but not saturated. During this period, water when the top 2-3 inches of soil are dry. Reduce watering in the fall and winter to allow the soil to dry out more thoroughly before each watering. Be sure to avoid over-watering as this can detrimentally affect the plant.

Crown imperial plants require full sunlight for optimal growth, and should be placed in direct sunlight when possible. The best time of day for the plant to receive the most sunlight is between 10am and 2pm, as the intensity of the sunlight is usually the greatest during this period. When the temperatures are over 90°F, or the sun is on the plant for more than 6 hours, the plant should be moved to a shaded spot in order to prevent the leaves from scorching in the sun. It is also important to ensure that the soil is kept moist, especially during hot weather.

Crown imperial should be pruned in both the spring and the fall. In the spring, after all danger of frost has passed, any damaged or diseased foliage should be removed and the plant should be divided if it has become overcrowded. In the fall, remove any foliage that has already died and cut back the stems that have already produced flowers. This will encourage the plant to produce more vigorous growth in the spring.