Mountain Shooting Star

Mountain Shooting Star (Dodecatheon pulchellum) plants should be watered deeply about once a week during their growing season, which usually lasts from April to October. During this time, they should be provided with enough water for the soil to remain damp most of the time. Before watering, check the soil moisture to ensure that it is not too dry. During summer months, check the soil every few days, as water requirements increase due to higher temperatures. In the fall, water the plants less frequently, as growth is slowing down. In winter, water the plants monthly, making sure not to overwater.

Mountain shooting star plants require plenty of sunlight throughout the growing season. During spring and summer, these plants should receive at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight each day. During the colder months, the plants should be left in a bright, sunny location that receives at least 4 hours of sunlight each day. Additionally, the plants may benefit from a bit of shade during the hottest parts of the day when direct sunlight is especially strong.

Mountain shooting star should be pruned as soon as flowering is finished in late spring or early summer, by removing the flowering stems at the base. This species does not require regular pruning, however, it can be lightly pruned to remove any dead or damaged stems and encourage more leafy growth, preferably in late summer or early fall. Compact, multi-stemmed plants can be lightly pruned in early Spring while the plant is still dormant. This will help promote better flowering in the next season.