With steppe candles (Eremurus) or Cleopatra needles in the garden, it can happen that the hoped-for blossom is delayed or does not appear at all. Therefore, the plant genus Eremurus, which is not particularly demanding in itself, should be offered the best possible location and care conditions.

The steppe candle is an easy-care, beautiful perennial for the garden

How often does the steppe candle have to be watered?

In the spring and during the flowering period, the steppe candle should be watered moderately, and the soil should not dry out too deeply during extended dry periods.

When can the steppe candle be transplanted?

The best time for transplanting or propagating the steppe candle is in early autumn, when the rhizomes are in a kind of dormancy. Transplanting in the spring can mean that the steppe candle only blooms again a year later.

When and how is the steppe candle cut?

The steppe candle grows anew from the rhizome every year and does not need to be pruned. The leaves and flowers should not be cut off until they are completely withered.

Which diseases or pests can be fatal to the steppe candle?

The steppe candle is generally not really attacked by diseases, however, the following pests can pose a problem in the garden:

  • grubs
  • voles
  • snails

While the snails "only" nibble on the leaves, the voles and grubs can cause great damage to the roots below the surface of the earth. If you notice signs of feeding when transplanting in autumn, you should take long-term countermeasures.

How should the steppe candle be fertilized?

In the spring, a long-term fertilizer or compost should be given so that the steppe candle has enough energy for the formation of the large flowers. After flowering, there should be no more fertilization so that the plants can prepare for the winter.

How is the steppe candle overwintered?

Directly in the perennial bed, the plant is usually hardy without any problems even in locations with very cold winters. Overwintering in a planter, on the other hand, can make winter protection necessary, since the outlasting organ (rhizome) is more exposed to the winter cold. Covering the ground with fleece or spruce brushwood has proven to be practical, as it also prevents the lanceolate leaves from sprout too early before the late frosts in spring.

tips

Make sure that no waterlogging leads to root rot in the steppe candles, even in winter. To prevent this, the planting hole should be provided with some sand or gravel as a drainage layer.

Category:

Herbs