red-hot poker

Red-hot pokers should be watered deeply but infrequently. Water to a depth of 8-12 inches (approximately 20-30 cm). The frequency of watering depends on the weather. In warm weather, they should be watered once per week; in cooler weather, 2 to 3 times per month should suffice. Make sure the roots are receiving plenty of moisture, but also make sure not to over-water. Over-watering can potentially lead to root rot. Also ensure that the soil has good drainage, as Red-hot pokers do not enjoy sitting in wet soil.

Red-Hot Poker (Kniphofia uvaria) requires full sun for the best flowering and to reach its mature size. This plant species prefers a minimum of 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight each day. It should also be protected from direct noon-time sun to avoid scorching. If planted in part-sun, the plant may become lanky and will not produce as many flowers.

Red-hot poker (Kniphofia uvaria) should be pruned in late winter or early spring while dormant. Pruning away dead or damaged tissue should be done first to encourage growth and prevent disease. After that, flowers and branches that have flowered can be cut back to the base, as this will encourage the plant to produce new flowers. For more established plants, a more thorough pruning can be done to control the size and shape of the plant, as well as to promote repeat flowering. Be sure to leave some new growth tips, as these will be crucial for the return of new, fresh foliage in the spring. Red-hot pokers should also be pruned to avoid disease, remove any leggy stems or straggling parts of the plant. Lastly, cutting back the foliage by a third will help the plant stay a manageable size and maintain its shape.