Plant blazing star corms in spring after frost, or in fall at least six weeks before the ground freezes. Set them about 2 to 4 inches deep and 12 to 15 inches apart on draining ground.
Plant corms in spring, or in fall before freeze
| Factor | Recommended | Avoid |
|---|---|---|
| When | Spring after frost, or fall before freeze | A corm sitting in cold, wet clay all winter with no drain |
| Depth | About 2 to 4 inches | A deep poke that buries the crown |
| Spacing | 12 to 15 inches | A turf of corms that mildews |
| Site | Full sun, draining ground | A low basin that holds winter water |
Plant as soon as frost risk has passed in spring, or in late summer to early fall when nights cool. [1] Space 12 to 15 inches. [2] Keep-alive after the clump stands lives on How to Grow Blazing Star. [3] Winter drain at the plant-out matters as much as depth. [4]
When should you plant blazing star?
Spring after the last frost, or fall at least six weeks before the ground freezes. Raise or grit a wet site first.
How to plant a blazing star corm
- Choose full sun and draining ground. On heavy clay, grit the hole or use a raised strip.
- Set the corm 2 to 4 inches deep. Pointed or rough side up if you can tell; on its side if you cannot.
- Space 12 to 15 inches. Plant in groups of five or more for a solid wand, not a single stem.
- Water once to settle. Keep even moisture the first season. Do not leave the crown in a puddle.
- ‘Kobold’ can sit closer to the front; prairie blazing star needs the back of the strip. Pinch is not the job — depth and drain are.
How deep do you plant liatris corms?
About 2 to 4 inches. Too deep is a usual miss for bloom.
What fails a blazing star planting
- A corm in winter wet — rot before spring. Drain or raise the bed.
- Too deep — leaves, few spikes. Lift and reset shallower.
- A seed packet treated as a first-year show — seed often blooms in year two. Buy corms if you want flowers this summer.
- Dividing in the heat of bloom — wait until spring as leaves emerge. Keep an eye on each piece.
Pick height and species on Types of Blazing Star. Partners live on Blazing Star Companion Plants.
Plant corms 2 to 4 inches deep on draining ground, in spring or fall.
FAQ
Should I start blazing star from seed?
You can. Cold-stratify, and expect bloom in the second year. Corms flower sooner.
How far apart should I plant?
12 to 15 inches. A turf of corms mildews and flops.
Which way up does the corm go?
Pointed or rough side up if you can tell. On its side if you cannot; it will find the light.
When do I divide blazing star?
In spring as leaves emerge, when the clump is crowded. Keep at least one eye on each piece.
Can I plant nursery pots at the same depth?
Set the crown at the same level as in the pot. Do not bury the stems.
Do I soak corms before planting?
A short soak in cool water can rehydrate dry corms. Do not leave them in water until they sour.
Related guides
Recommended plants
References
- [1] Almanac -
https://www.almanac.com/plant/liatris-blazing-star - [2] UF/IFAS Extension -
https://blogs.ifas.ufl.edu/nassauco/2017/06/05/fact-sheet-liatris/ - [3] NC State Extension -
https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/liatris-spicata/ - [4] Illinois Extension -
https://extension.illinois.edu/flowers/spike-gayfeather
This note is part of Liatris Guides.
More planting notes by plant are gathered in Planting Guides.
Updated: Reviewed by Bosquelle Editors