Caring for Leopard plant 'The Rocket'

Watering is the single most important task with Ligularia 'The Rocket'. This is a moisture-loving perennial with high water needs, and the large leaves will visibly wilt if the soil dries out, especially in warm or sunny weather. Water deeply and regularly from spring through summer, increasing frequency during hot, dry spells—daily watering may be necessary in full sun. In partial shade and during cooler, wetter periods, you can ease off, but never let the soil dry out completely. Reduce watering in autumn as growth slows, and little is needed over winter when the plant is dormant. Feed in March, April, or May as new growth emerges. Apply a generous handful of general-purpose granular fertiliser such as blood, fish and bone around the base of the clump, or use a controlled-release fertiliser. Alternatively, mulch annually in early spring with a 5 cm layer of well-rotted manure or garden compost, which feeds the soil and helps lock in moisture. Avoid high-nitrogen feeds later in the season, as these promote soft growth vulnerable to slug damage. Slugs and snails are the main pests, particularly fond of the young spring foliage. Check regularly and use your preferred control method—hand-picking, traps, or organic pellets. Powdery mildew can occur on leaves in dry conditions, another reason to keep the soil moist. Ligularia is fully hardy in zones 4–8 and needs no winter protection; simply cut back dead growth in late autumn and apply a fresh mulch in early spring to suppress weeds and conserve moisture throughout the growing season.