Expert: Kenneth Joergensen - 7/28/2006

Question
I recently moved into a home where a plant called "Red Hot Poker" is growing profusely.  They are no longer blooming.  Is it okay to move and replant them now, and are there any other specifics about this plant I should know? I live in Zone 7.

Answer
If you remove fading flower spikes promptly, torch lilies (red hot poker) tend to rebloom. Remember this for next year.

I recommend that you transplant in late spring or early fall. Early fall will give it time to establish before winter and is best time.

Transplant to a position which gets full sun and space adequately as they will spread (3 feet on center). Make sure the soil has good drainage to avoid crown rot. You can improve this by mixing some compost or peatmoss sphagnum into the soil before planting. Make sure the crown of the plant does not "settle" below soil level (you can do this by planting slightly above soil level to allow for settling).

Red hot poker can take a fair amount of dry spells, but they will bloom better if watered regularily. As long as the soil drains well, you can water them thoroughly for best result.

The soil pH for growing Kniphofias should be near neutral (6.0-6.5)

To protect your Red Hot Poker in winter, try to leave the dead foliage for next spring, or cover it with shredded oakleaves. If the plant stays green in your area, you can also try to fold the leaves together to protect them. In spring you can remove any fully or partially dead leaves.