Blanket Flower

Learning Download: How to Grow Gaillardia

Gaillardia is also known as Blanket Flower and is an easy-to-grow perennial that blooms daisy-like flowers. The flowers are typically long bloomers and can blanket the garden. They grow well in containers as a border.

Before Planting: Gaillardia also can be sowed indoors up to eight weeks before the last frost date.

Planting: Once the seedlings have their first true set of leaves, thin them by removing the weakest sprouts. Transplant them outdoors after the last frost date.

Watering: Once Gaillardia is planted, water it regularly until normal growth begins to appear. Once active growth appears, lessen the watering.

Fertilizer: Once established, fertilize Gaillardia with a 10-10-10 fertilizer once a month.

Days to Maturity: Gaillardia begins blooming in the early summer and will continue to bloom through the late fall.

Harvesting: To harvest the seeds, cut the stalk once the flower has dies and the petals have dropped off. Pinch off the seed head and place it in a dry, paper bag. Leave the bag open to ventilate the seeds for two weeks. Once dry, hold the seed head over a bowl and rub it to remove the seeds. Once the seeds have been harvested, store them in a sealed container in a cool, dark place until ready to plant.

Tips: Divide the plants every two to three years since they are usually short-lived.