Question of the Week: How to Handle Crown Rot

Q: The Red Hot Poker in my backyard has developed lots of brown leaves (see photo). Is this normal? Is there something we can do?

A: After inspecting your Red Hot Poker (Kniphofia), it's clear that it is suffering from crown rot, a condition that can be fatal to the plant.

Solution: Your plant needs to dry out completely. Avoid watering it further. Since it's an established, drought-tolerant plant, it should be fine with just occasional rain. If we experience another extended dry spell, you may need to provide some supplemental water.