Torch Lilies – A Floral Sea of Flames in the Garden

• Like a rocket, it shoots up high and impresses with the colors of blazing flames: The torch lily makes quite an impression in the garden!**

Torch lilies (Kniphofia), also known as rocket flowers, live up to their name. After all, their unusual flower heads aim high. With their exceptional brilliance, they bring variety to the flower bed – and that throughout the entire summer.

There are about 70 evergreen and deciduous species of torch lily. Their tall flower spikes are a defining feature. The plants can grow up to 120 centimeters tall, with some cultivars reaching even 150 centimeters. Dwarf torch lilies, on the other hand, typically grow no taller than 70 centimeters. Above dense foliage that remains green even in winter, the flower spikes rise on upright stems. Between July and October, the flower clusters shine in warm colors like yellow, orange, and red. Often, you can also find bi-colored torch lilies. These exotics thrive best in a sunny and warm location. They don't require many nutrients in the soil.

It is best to plant torch lilies in spring. If you opt for a fall planting, the perennial may not grow well. A planting depth of about 8 centimeters has proven effective. Ensure that the soil is not too wet, but also does not dry out. The soil should be moist but well-draining. Like most plants, torch lilies do not like waterlogging. A drainage layer can be helpful in any case. Bark mulch or gravel are ideal for this and also help prevent the roots from drying out. You don't need to fertilize, as too many nutrients can make the plant more susceptible to diseases.

Before torch lilies fully bloom, they require a lot of water. If you water them diligently, it will ensure a lush display of flowers. However, the plants do not like to be too wet, which makes them particularly susceptible in winter. This issue worsens if you provide too many nutrients to the torch lilies. Therefore, the key care measure is to trim the spent flower stems but not the foliage. In winter, you can tie the foliage together to protect the plant's delicate center. Dry leaves or a layer of plastic on the ground will protect the roots from excessive winter rain.