Blanket Flower Native Wildflower

Blanketflower is a low-maintenance plant that grows best in full sun and well-drained soil. It prefers sandy, loamy, or rocky soils with a pH of 6.0-7.5. It is drought tolerant and can tolerate some shade, but it will produce more flowers in full sun.

Sow seeds outdoors after danger of frost has passed.  Sow seeds 1/8" deep and cover with fine soil.  Alternatively, seed may be broadcasted and raked in.  Under ideal conditions, germination will occur in 14-21 days.  Thin to one plant every 14-18".  In warm climates, seed may alternatively be sown in the fall.

While direct-seeding is preferred, Blanketflower can be started indoors 6-8 weeks before the last frost. Harden off seedlings for a few days prior to transplanting. After danger of frost has passed, dig a hole roughly the size of the root ball and lower the seedling in, being careful not to disturb the roots. Backfill with loose soil and water well. Space plants 16-18" in all directions. Keep well-watered until the plants are established.

Blanketflowers are not prone to many insects or diseases. Provide moderate moisture and avoid saturating the soil for long periods as these plants prefer well-drained soil.

Blanketflower makes a beautiful cut flower, albeit with a shorter vase life than other varieties. Flowers may be kept slightly longer using a floral preservative.

CONSIDERATIONS:

Harvest Blanketflower seeds when the flower heads have dried and turned brown. Cut off the flower heads and place them in a paper bag to dry further. Once dry, shake the bag to release the seeds.

HARVESTING SEED:

SEED LONGETIVITY:

Blanketflower seeds typically remain viable for up to two years if stored in a cool, dry place.