Seriously….

Denise says:

All good questions.  I just pulled out a large clump that produced maybe two flowers this summer.  That’s not enough return for such a massive amount of leaves.

Posted on July 20, 2011 at 6:23 am.

Elizabeth says:

My orange/yellow clump in the front shady yard goes crazy with blooms each year (benign neglect ?), but my yellow clump in the back, with lots of sun puts out one puny bloom. Same water conditions. Go figure.

Posted on July 20, 2011 at 7:11 am.

pat Welsh says:

I agree kniphofia are virtually impossible to grow in Southern California, given our current water restrictions, and especIally impossible in sandy soil. What kniphofia need is a march for part of the year that goes dry at other times of year—not exactly a vernal pond, since vernal ponds are wet in winter when most kniphofias want to be dry, but a pond that is a marsh in spring and summer or whenever your specific species likes to grow and bloom (some like summer others winter!) Then the march must dry up the rest of the year. What garden can provide those conditions? Yes, I agree kniphofia are IMPOSSIBLE!

Posted on July 20, 2011 at 7:29 am.

Susan says:

A 10” clump of Kniphofia galpinii ‘Orange Flame’ produced 25 blooms this year. It’s dormant in the winter, but comes back with a vengance in early spring.  It’s in a bed with gallardia, aster, blue geranium, hyssop & salvia—I water to accomodate these plants, & the kniphofia goes along for the ride.  Full sun in hot Mission Viejo.  Lots of water—every other day in this weather.. Rather poor soil, but using Gro-Power Plus.

Posted on July 20, 2011 at 7:46 am.

Cindy McNatt says:

Some shade and lots of water? Is that the answer?

Posted on July 20, 2011 at 7:49 am.