Blanket Flower Gaillardia

Asteraceae (Daisy & Sunflower family)

Wildflower

Easy 

Starting indoors 

Beginning 4-6 weeks before the last frost of the season, scatter seeds onto the surface of a well-draining soil. Firmly press the seeds into the soil and moisten them when sown. Seeds should germinate in 8 to 15 days.

Direct sowing in garden: 

Starting in the spring, or in the fall for warmer climates, directly sow seeds onto the surface of the soil, and moisten them when done. 

Moderate

After the flower has died and the petals have fallen, pinch off the seed head and place it in a paper bag. Leave the bag open for ventilation, allowing the seeds to dry for two weeks. Once dry, hold the seed head over a bowl and rub it to release the seeds.

To store, place seeds in a sealed container in a cool, dark place. 

🌅 Outdoors
Preferred, with full sun

🏠 Indoors 

Can be started indoors in pots with drainage holes with full coverage of sun, but they thrive outdoors

☀️ Full Sun

• Temps: 🌡️ Hot, dry climates preferred; can survive high temperatures 

• Hardiness Zones: 🗺️ 3 to 10 (2023 USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map - Michigan) 

• Humidity: 🌫️ Description of humidity preferences/tolerance

• Water Conditions: 💧 If newly planted, ensure soil is moist by misting with water, making sure to avoid the leaves. Once the plant is established, water once or twice a week.

• pH: 🧪 Acidic to neutral soil, 5.5-7.0

• Soil conditions: 🌱 Poor, fast-draining soil

Early summer to fall

Deadhead the plant (remove dead flowers) regularly to encourage longer blooms. Be sure to not overwater.