Lance-leaved coreopsis, also known as tickseed, is a bright yellow wildflower that adds color to gardens and attracts butterflies and bees.
It’s easy to grow and care for, making it a great choice for both new and experienced gardeners. Here’s how to successfully grow lance-leaved coreopsis in your garden.
Choosing the Right Spot
- Soil: Lance-leaved coreopsis grows best in well-drained soil. Sandy or loamy soil is ideal, but this plant can also tolerate poor soil conditions. A slightly acidic to neutral pH (around 6.0 to 7.0) is best.
- Sunlight: This plant loves the sun! Make sure it gets at least 6 hours of direct sunlight each day. While it can survive in partial shade, it will produce fewer flowers.
Planting Your Coreopsis
1. When to Plant?: The best time to plant lance-leaved coreopsis is in the spring after the last frost or in the fall.
2. Spacing: If you’re planting seeds or seedlings, space them about 12 to 18 inches apart. This gives them room to grow and spread.
3. How Deep?: Plant seeds about 1/4 inch deep. If you’re using seedlings, make sure the top of the root ball is level with the soil surface.
Caring for Your Plants
- Watering: Once your coreopsis is established, it doesn’t need much water. It’s drought-tolerant, but during dry spells, give it some extra water to keep it healthy. Be careful not to overwater, as this can cause root rot.
- Fertilizing: You can use a balanced fertilizer in early spring to help your plants grow strong. However, too much fertilizer can lead to weak plants with fewer flowers, so use it sparingly.
- Pruning: To encourage more blooms, remove spent flowers (this is called deadheading) regularly. In late fall or early spring, cut back the plants to about 4-6 inches above the ground.
Dealing with Pests
Lance-leaved coreopsis is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, keep an eye out for aphids or spider mites. If you see any pests, you can use insecticidal soap or neem oil to treat them.
Propagation
You can grow more lance-leaved coreopsis by:
- Seeds: Collect seeds from mature plants in late summer and sow them directly in your garden.
- Division: Divide established plants every 2-3 years in spring or fall to keep them healthy and control their growth.
Conclusion
Lance-leaved coreopsis is a beautiful and easy-to-care-for plant that brings life to any garden. With its bright yellow flowers and ability to attract pollinators, it’s a wonderful addition that will bloom year after year with just a little attention!
