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Growing tall Blazing Star (Liatris) varieties can create stunning vertical accents in gardens and landscapes. However, their height and top-heavy nature often require proper staking to prevent damage and maintain an attractive appearance. Effective staking techniques ensure that these vibrant perennials thrive and remain visually appealing throughout their blooming season.
Understanding the Need for Staking
Tall Blazing Star varieties, such as Liatris spicata ‘Kobold’ or Liatris pycnostachya, can reach heights of 3 to 4 feet or more. Their slender stems are prone to bending or snapping under the weight of their flower spikes or during strong winds. Proper staking provides support, reduces plant stress, and promotes healthy growth and flowering.
Timing for Staking
It’s best to stake tall Blazing Star early in the growing season, ideally when plants are about half their mature height. This prevents damage to the stems and roots and makes installation easier. Waiting until plants are fully grown can cause unnecessary stress or injury to the plants.
Staking Materials
- Garden stakes (wooden, bamboo, or metal)
- Plant support cages or tomato cages
- Twine, plant ties, or soft garden wire
- Landscape fabric or stakes with built-in support features
Staking Techniques
Single Stake Method
Place a sturdy stake near the base of the plant, ensuring it extends above the tallest flower spike. Use soft ties or garden twine to gently secure the stem to the stake at several points, avoiding damage. This method provides direct support and is suitable for individual tall plants.
Multiple Stakes and Caging
For larger clumps or densely flowering areas, install multiple stakes around the perimeter and connect them with horizontal supports or netting. Use plant ties to secure stems to the supports, creating a cage-like structure that stabilizes multiple plants simultaneously.
Using Support Rings or Collars
Support rings or collars made of flexible wire or plastic can be placed around the base of the plant. These rings help distribute support evenly and prevent stems from flopping over. They are especially useful for very tall or top-heavy varieties.
Additional Tips for Success
- Choose stakes that are at least as tall as the mature height of the plant.
- Use soft ties to prevent stem damage and allow some flexibility in wind.
- Regularly check ties and supports to adjust as plants grow.
- Remove any damaged or diseased stems to maintain plant health.
- Remove supports after the flowering season to prevent winter damage or disease.
Conclusion
Proper staking of tall Blazing Star varieties enhances their visual impact and prolongs their lifespan in the garden. By selecting appropriate materials and techniques, gardeners can enjoy vibrant, upright displays of these striking perennials season after season.