Coneflowers

Planting coneflowers

Start indoors 8 to 10 weeks before the last frost, or sow in fall for blooms the following year. Seed-grown plants often bloom in their second season.

Planting details

• Plant divisions or transplants in spring or early fall
• Spacing: 18 to 24 inches
• Seed depth: about 1/4 inch

Growing requirements

Coneflowers thrive in full sun and well-drained soil. Once established, they tolerate drought and need little supplemental water except in long dry spells.

Harvesting and care

Deadhead through summer to extend bloom, then leave some seed heads standing in fall for birds. Divide crowded clumps every 3 to 4 years.

Common mistakes

• Heavy, wet soil, which can rot the crown over winter
• Expecting first-year blooms from seed, which often does not happen
• Cutting all stems back in fall, which removes winter seed heads that feed finches

Companion plants

Coneflowers pair well with other sun-loving perennials and native grasses. Leave enough room for the clump to expand over several seasons.