Red Hot Poker Plants: A Guide to Growing Torch Lilies from Seed
Red hot poker plants are striking ornamental perennials that add a touch of fiery color to any garden. Their tall, blazing flower spikes resemble torches, hence their common name. These South African natives are relatively easy to grow, and they attract butterflies while being deer resistant.
What Do Red Hot Poker Seeds Look Like?
Red hot poker plants produce numerous seeds that can be collected and planted to propagate new plants. The seeds are small and dark brown, and they are contained in pods that develop from the ovaries of the tubular blooms.
How to Collect Red Hot Poker Seeds
To collect red hot poker seeds, allow the flower spikes to fade and dry at the end of summer. The individual blooms will fall off, but the ovaries will develop into seed pods. Cut off the entire stem and pull the pods from the stems. Place the pods in a dish to catch the small seeds as you break them open.
How to Plant Red Hot Poker Seeds
Materials you’ll need:
- Red hot poker seeds
- Well-draining potting mix
- Pots or seed trays
- Refrigerator
- Watering can or spray bottle
Instructions:
- Cold Treatment: Before sowing the seeds, give them a cold treatment for four weeks to break their dormancy. Place the seeds in a baggie and store them in the refrigerator.
- Sowing: Once the seeds have chilled, they are ready to plant. Sow the seeds indoors six to eight weeks before the last frost. Use a well-draining potting mix and sow three seeds in each pot or seed tray. Lightly dust the seeds with soil.
- Watering: Keep the containers moist but not soggy. Water them gently with a watering can or spray bottle.
- Germination: Germination typically occurs within 21 to 28 days. Place the containers in a warm location with temperatures between 70 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Transplanting: When the seedlings have developed several true leaves and are a few inches tall, transplant them into individual pots or into the garden. Harden them off gradually before transplanting outdoors.
Growing Red Hot Poker Plants
Soil: Red hot poker plants prefer well-draining soil with plenty of organic matter. Amend the soil with compost or manure before planting.
Sunlight: These plants thrive in full sun, but they can also tolerate partial shade.
Water: Water red hot poker plants regularly, especially during hot, dry weather. Allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings.
Fertilizer: Fertilize red hot poker plants monthly during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
Troubleshooting
Common Problems:
- Yellowing leaves: This can be a sign of overwatering or nutrient deficiency.
- Leggy plants: This can be caused by insufficient sunlight or overwatering.
- Failure to bloom: This can be due to lack of sunlight, improper soil conditions, or not dividing the plants every few years.
Tips for Success
- Divide red hot poker plants every three to five years to promote blooming and dense clumps.
- Remove spent flower spikes as they occur to encourage new growth.
- Cut back the foliage in late winter or early spring to make room for new leaves.
- Protect red hot poker plants from cold temperatures in northern climates by mulching over the root zone.
- Red hot poker plants are easy to propagate from seed, cuttings, or division.
With proper care, red hot poker plants will thrive and add a touch of fiery beauty to your garden for years to come.
