From my perspective, my roots require a home that provides both ample space for growth and exceptional stability. I am a tall, stately plant, and I will become top-heavy when I bloom. Therefore, I require a pot that is both deep and wide; a container of at least 12-18 inches in both depth and diameter is non-negotiable. Depth is critical for my taproot to descend and anchor me securely. Furthermore, this pot must have multiple drainage holes. My roots despise sitting in waterlogged soil, which will quickly lead to my demise from root rot. A heavy material like ceramic, concrete, or a dense wood is preferable to lightweight plastic, as it will provide the ballast needed to keep me upright during strong balcony winds.
I cannot thrive in dense, nutrient-poor garden soil. I demand a premium, well-draining potting mix. Look for a quality commercial mix that is light and fluffy. To further ensure the perfect balance of moisture retention and drainage—which is my ideal condition—you may consider amending this mix with a handful of perlite or horticultural grit. This creates air pockets within the soil, allowing my roots to breathe and access oxygen while letting excess water flow freely away from them. The pH of the soil is also of importance; I prefer a neutral to slightly alkaline environment.
My location on your balcony is paramount. I am a sun-loving plant and require a minimum of six to eight hours of direct sunlight daily to fuel my growth and develop my vibrant flower spikes. Please place me in the brightest spot you have. As for water, I am particular. I enjoy consistently moist soil, but never, ever soggy. You must check the top inch of my soil with your finger; if it feels dry, it is time for a deep, thorough watering until you see it run out of the drainage holes. In the heat of a US summer, this may mean daily watering. Mulching the top of my soil with a layer of bark chips or gravel will help conserve that precious moisture.
To produce my magnificent and towering flower spires, I am a heavy feeder. The limited soil in my pot is quickly depleted of nutrients. As I begin my active growth in spring, I require a balanced, slow-release fertilizer worked into the top layer of my soil. Once my flower buds begin to form, my needs change. I then benefit from a liquid fertilizer with a higher phosphorus content (the middle number on the bottle) applied every two to four weeks. This specific nutrient encourages prolific and vibrant blooming, allowing me to put on the spectacular show you desire.
After my first magnificent bloom fades, you can encourage me to produce a second, smaller show of flowers. To do this, you must cut my spent flower stalks back to a set of healthy leaves. As a perennial, my energy will then begin to retreat to my crown to prepare for winter. In colder USDA zones, my potted existence makes my roots vulnerable to freezing. To protect me, you must move my container to a sheltered location, such as an unheated garage, after my foliage has died back. Alternatively, you can insulate my pot by wrapping it in bubble wrap or burlap and mulching heavily over my crown. Without this protection, the freezing temperatures will likely kill me.
