A tall, imposing perennial producing fantastic poker spikes with bronze stems and tubular, cream flowers which start opening from the top in July to October. Height 1.25m. Spread 1m. Full sun. Moist, well drained soil. Hardy.
Kniphofia ‘Tawny King’ is a striking perennial known for its tall poker-like spikes with creamy tubular flowers on bronze stems. Blooming from July to October, it brings elegance and height to sunny borders and garden beds. Follow this planting and care guide to make Kniphofia ‘Tawny King’ a standout feature in your garden.
PLANTING and AFTERCARE GUIDE
Best Time to Plant
Spring Planting: Plant Kniphofia ‘Tawny King’ in spring when the soil warms up. This allows the roots to establish before the blooming season begins.
Autumn Planting: Planting in early autumn is also ideal, providing time for your Kniphofia to settle in and prepare for robust growth the following year.
Ideal Planting Site
Sunlight: Kniphofia thrives in full sun. Choose a location that receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily for optimal growth and flower production.
Soil: This perennial prefers moist, well-drained soil. Avoid waterlogged areas, as poor drainage can lead to root rot. Adding organic matter like compost improves both drainage and fertility, ensuring Kniphofia ‘Tawny King’ flourishes.
Planting Instructions
Prepare the Hole: Dig a hole twice as wide and as deep as the root ball to give the roots of Kniphofia ‘Tawny King’ plenty of room to spread.
Soil Preparation: Mix organic compost or well-rotted manure into the soil to boost nutrients and drainage.
Positioning the Plant: Place the root ball into the hole, ensuring the crown of the plant sits level with the soil surface. Avoid burying the crown too deeply.
Backfill and Water: Refill the hole gently, firming the soil around the plant to remove air pockets. Water thoroughly after planting to help your Kniphofia establish quickly.
Watering Requirements
Growing Season: Kniphofia ‘Tawny King’ prefers consistent moisture, especially during its active growing and flowering period. Water deeply during dry spells, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings.
Dormant Season: Reduce watering in autumn and winter when the plant is dormant, but ensure the soil doesn’t become completely dry.
Feeding
Spring: In early spring, apply a slow-release fertiliser to encourage healthy growth and vibrant blooms. This helps Kniphofia ‘Tawny King’ establish strong shoots for the flowering season.
Mid-Summer: A light application of liquid fertiliser during the flowering season can extend the bloom period and keep your Kniphofia thriving.
Pruning and Maintenance
Deadheading: Regularly remove spent flower spikes to promote further blooming and maintain a tidy appearance.
Autumn Pruning: After the flowering season ends, cut back dead foliage and stems to the base. This allows your Kniphofia to store energy for the next growing season.
Mulching
Spring Mulch: Add a layer of organic mulch around your Kniphofia in spring to retain moisture, regulate soil temperature, and suppress weeds. Bark chips or compost work well.
Winter Mulch: Apply a thicker layer of mulch in late autumn to protect the roots from frost and prevent winter damage.
Supporting Growth
Kniphofia ‘Tawny King’ grows to an impressive height of 1.25m with a spread of 1m. While it generally has sturdy stems, staking may be necessary in windy locations to prevent the tall flower spikes from bending or breaking.
Final Tips
Kniphofia ‘Tawny King’ is a hardy, low-maintenance perennial that adds vertical interest and dramatic colour to garden borders. By planting it in full sun and moist, well-drained soil, you’ll enjoy its striking blooms from midsummer to autumn. Regular watering, feeding, and deadheading will ensure your Kniphofia remains a reliable and beautiful feature year after year.
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