SEED TYPE : Open Pollinated

PLANT TYPE : Annual

FLOWER COLOR : Various shades of red, yellow, orange, or peach.

SOWING TIME: All Season

SOWING METHOD : Directly from Seed / Transplanting

GERMINATION TIME : 6 – 8 Days

GROWING CONTAINER : 8 inch height pot / Garden bed

GROWING MEDIA : 1 part  Garden soil 1 part Cocopeat 1 part Vermicompost

FLOWERING : 70 – 80 Days After Sowing

DESCRIPTION :

Gaillardia forms a slowly spreading mound and the common name may be a reference to how they can slowly spread and “blanket” an area. The flower can reseed and sprawl through the garden. Since the original plants are hybrids, expect some variation from self-seeding.

Bright reds, oranges and yellows are characteristic colors of gaillardia (Gaillardia spp.) plants. These drought-tolerant flowers come in both annual and perennial varieties. The brown center of the gaillardia flower changes to a seed head after pollination. Seeds grow readily with the proper planting and care. Sow gaillardia seeds six to eight weeks before the last average frost date in your area.

Blanket flowers are fairly foolproof if planted in any well-drained soil in a full-sun location. These short-lived perennials are usually planted from nursery starts, but they also grow easily from seeds planted directly in the garden after the last frost date (or started indoors about 4 to 6 weeks early).

Gaillardias are such long bloomers that they work equally well in borders and containers. Blanket flowers do well with other heat-loving plants that thrive in full sun. The bold, daisy-like flowers blend especially well with soft textures, like thread-leaf Coreopsis and cosmos, as well as airy ornamental grasses. For more contrast, plant them with spiky plants like Kniphofia, Crocosmia, or daylilies. ‘Burgundy’ contrasts well with blue flowers, like Salvia and veronica. All the Gaillardia varieties make excellent cut flowers. They also attract butterflies and small birds, like finches, which are a welcome addition to any garden.