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Yellow Flowers

Arizona Poppies: A Complete Guide to Growing and Caring for These Beautiful Desert Flowers

by Gregory December 18, 2024

written by Gregory 3 minutes read

Arizona Poppies: A Guide to Growing and Caring for These Beautiful Desert Flowers

Introduction

Are you looking for a beautiful and easy-to-grow plant to add to your dry garden? Look no further than the Arizona poppy! This annual plant is native to the U.S. southwest and is known for its large, bright yellow flowers with an orange center. Arizona poppies are perfect for large gardens in dry climates, and they require very little care.

What is an Arizona Poppy?

Arizona poppies (Kallstroemia grandiflora) are not true poppies, but they belong to the same plant family. They are also called summer poppies or orange caltrops, and their bright yellow-orange flowers resemble those of California poppies. Arizona poppies are native to the U.S. southwest, from Arizona to New Mexico to Texas. They have also been introduced in southern California.

Growing Arizona Poppies

Arizona poppies are hardy in zones 8b through 11 and require full sun to grow. They grow best in sandy, well-drained soil and will tolerate dry weather. Give them plenty of space in the garden, as a single plant can get to be 1 to 3 feet tall and wide.

How to Care for Arizona Poppies

Arizona poppies are very low-maintenance plants. They require occasional watering, especially if summer rain has been light. Overwatering can harm the plants. There is no need to deadhead the flowers or prune the plants, and they do not require any feeding. Arizona poppies have no serious pests or diseases to worry about.

Using Arizona Poppies in the Garden

Arizona poppies are a versatile plant that can be used in a variety of garden settings. They are perfect for large gardens in dry climates, and they can also be used to create drifts of color in the garden. Arizona poppies can also be used as a groundcover or in containers.

Companion Plants for Arizona Poppies

Arizona poppies grow well with other plants that tolerate dry conditions, such as:

Blanket flowers
Coneflowers
Gaillardia
Marigolds
Salvias
Verbena

Tips for Growing Arizona Poppies

Plant Arizona poppy seeds in late spring and cover lightly with soil.
Water regularly until the seeds germinate.
Thin seedlings to 12 inches apart.
Arizona poppies will reseed on their own, so you can enjoy them year after year.
If you want to save seeds for the next spring, store them in a dark, dry place.

Conclusion

Arizona poppies are a beautiful and easy-to-grow plant that is perfect for dry gardens. With their large, bright yellow flowers and low-maintenance care, Arizona poppies are sure to add a touch of beauty to your garden.

Gardening

Stiff Goldenrod: A Native Beauty That’s Easy to Grow and Beneficial for Wildlife

by Gregory October 22, 2024

written by Gregory 3 minutes read

Stiff Goldenrod: A Native Beauty for Your Garden

Introduction

Stiff goldenrod, also known as rigid goldenrod, is a unique and eye-catching native plant that belongs to the aster family. With its tall, straight stems and bright yellow flowers, it adds a vibrant touch to any wildflower garden. This easy-care plant is also a favorite of bees and butterflies.

Stiff Goldenrod Information

Stiff goldenrod plants are impressive with their tall, straight stems that can reach up to 5 feet in height. The stems are topped with clusters of small, yellow flowers that bloom from July to October. These flowers grow in flat-topped inflorescences, adding a unique and colorful touch to your garden.

Stiff goldenrod is native to North America and can be found from Massachusetts to Saskatchewan, and south to Texas. It grows as a wildflower in many states, including Michigan, Illinois, Ohio, Indiana, Iowa, Missouri, and Wisconsin. In these areas, you’ll find goldenrod growing in both prairies and open woodlands.

How to Grow Stiff Goldenrod

Growing stiff goldenrod in your garden is remarkably easy. These plants thrive in full sun and can tolerate a wide range of soil conditions. However, they prefer moist, well-drained soil.

Stiff goldenrod plants are hardy in cool to mild regions, corresponding to U.S. Department of Agriculture plant hardiness zones 3 through 9. While new transplants require regular irrigation, established plants are quite low-maintenance.

In fact, it’s beneficial to encourage competition from other plants around stiff goldenrod. This helps keep the plants from growing too tall or reseeding too prolifically.

Benefits of Stiff Goldenrod

Adds color and beauty to your garden
Attracts bees and butterflies
Easy to grow and low-maintenance
Native to North America
Tolerates a range of soil conditions

Stiff Goldenrod Varieties

There are several varieties of stiff goldenrod, including:

Solidago rigida var. rigida: The most common variety, with tall, straight stems and yellow flowers.
Solidago rigida var. humilis: A shorter variety with a more compact growth habit.
Solidago rigida var. speciosa: A variety with larger, showy flowers.

Companion Plants for Stiff Goldenrod

Stiff goldenrod pairs well with other native plants, such as:

Purple coneflower
Black-eyed Susan
Milkweed
Butterfly weed
Aster
Blazing star

Stiff Goldenrod in Art and Literature

Stiff goldenrod has been featured in art and literature for centuries. It has been depicted in paintings, drawings, and photographs. It has also been mentioned in poems and songs.

Conclusion

Stiff goldenrod is a beautiful and easy-care native plant that adds color and beauty to any garden. It’s also a favorite of bees and butterflies. If you’re looking for a low-maintenance plant that will attract wildlife and add a touch of natural beauty to your garden, stiff goldenrod is a great choice.

Flower Gardening

Yellow Flowers for Summer Gardens: A Guide to Choosing and Growing the Best Varieties

by Gregory September 26, 2024

written by Gregory 4 minutes read

Yellow Flowers: A Burst of Sunshine for Your Garden

Yellow flowers are like little bursts of sunshine that can brighten up any garden. With so many different types to choose from, it can be hard to know where to start. Here’s a guide to some of the most popular yellow flowers for summer gardens, along with tips on how to choose the right ones for your needs.

Choosing the Right Yellow Flowers

When choosing yellow flowers for your garden, there are a few things to keep in mind:

Climate: Some yellow flowers are more tolerant of heat and drought than others. If you live in a hot, dry climate, you’ll want to choose flowers that can withstand those conditions.
Soil: Some yellow flowers prefer well-drained soil, while others can tolerate poor soil conditions. Be sure to choose flowers that are suited to the type of soil in your garden.
Sun exposure: Most yellow flowers need full sun to bloom their best. However, there are some varieties that can tolerate partial shade.
Bloom time: Some yellow flowers bloom in the spring, while others bloom in the summer or fall. Choose flowers that will bloom at the time of year when you want to enjoy them most.

Popular Yellow Flowers for Summer Gardens

Here are some of the most popular yellow flowers for summer gardens:

Calendula: Calendula flowers are often planted near vegetable gardens because they are said to repel insects. They also bloom consistently throughout the growing season.
Coneflower: Coneflowers are native to North America and come in a variety of colors, including yellow. They are easy to grow and attract pollinators.
Coreopsis: Coreopsis are wildflowers that are known for their bright yellow blooms. They are easy to grow and can tolerate poor soil conditions.
Daylily: Daylilies are popular perennials that come in a variety of colors, including yellow. They are low-maintenance and will bloom all summer long.
Lantana: Lantana are tropical flowers that are often grown as annuals in cooler climates. They are attractive to butterflies and other pollinators.
Marigold: Marigolds are another popular companion plant for vegetable gardens. They are said to repel insects and can also be used as bedding plants or in cut flower gardens.
Rudbeckia: Rudbeckia are native wildflowers that come in a variety of sizes and colors, including yellow. They are easy to grow and attract pollinators.
Sunflower: Sunflowers are a classic summer flower that comes in a variety of sizes and colors, including yellow. They are a favorite of pollinators and birds.
Yarrow: Yarrow is a herbaceous perennial that is known for its bright yellow flowers. It is drought-tolerant and thrives in hot, sunny locations.
Zinnia: Zinnias are easy-to-grow annuals that come in a variety of colors, including yellow. They bloom all summer long and are a favorite of butterflies and other pollinators.

Companion Planting with Yellow Flowers

Yellow flowers can be used to attract pollinators to your garden. Some good companion plants for yellow flowers include:

Vegetables: Tomatoes, peppers, and eggplant
Herbs: Basil, oregano, and thyme
Other flowers: Purple coneflowers, daisies, and black-eyed Susans

Easy-to-Grow Yellow Flowers for Beginners

If you’re new to gardening, here are a few easy-to-grow yellow flowers that are perfect for beginners:

Calendula
Coreopsis
Daylily
Marigold
Zinnia

These flowers are all easy to grow and will provide you with a burst of sunshine in your garden all summer long.

Gardening

Corn Marigold: A Bright, Beneficial, and Easy-to-Grow Flower

by Gregory June 28, 2024

written by Gregory 3 minutes read

Corn Marigold: A Bright and Beneficial Flower

Corn marigold (Chrysanthemum segetum) is a beautiful and easy-to-grow annual flower that adds a splash of color to gardens and attracts beneficial insects.

Appearance and Growth Habit

Corn marigold is a member of the daisy family and produces bright yellow, daisy-like blooms that can reach up to 2 inches in diameter. The flowers are borne on upright stems that can grow up to 20 inches tall. The leaves are long and narrow, and they are a deep green color.

Corn marigold is an annual plant, which means that it completes its life cycle in one year. It is native to Europe and Asia, but it has become naturalized in many other parts of the world.

Growing Conditions

Corn marigold is a very adaptable plant that can grow in a variety of conditions. It prefers full sun, but it can also tolerate partial shade. It is also tolerant of a wide range of soils, but it prefers well-drained soil that is not too alkaline.

To grow corn marigold, simply sow the seeds directly in the garden in the spring. The seeds should be sown about 1/4 inch deep and spaced about 6 inches apart. Water the seeds well, and keep the soil moist until the seeds germinate.

Once the seedlings have emerged, thin them out so that they are spaced about 12 inches apart. Water the plants regularly, and fertilize them monthly with a balanced fertilizer.

Benefits of Corn Marigold

Corn marigold is a beneficial plant for several reasons. First, it is a good source of nectar and pollen for bees and other beneficial insects. Second, it is a host plant for the painted lady butterfly. Third, corn marigold is a natural insect repellent. The leaves contain a compound called pyrethrum, which is a natural insecticide.

Corn Marigold in the Landscape

Corn marigold is a versatile plant that can be used in a variety of ways in the landscape. It is a good choice for borders, cottage gardens, and wildflower meadows. It can also be grown in containers.

When planting corn marigold in the landscape, be sure to choose a location where it will receive plenty of sun. The plants should be spaced about 12 inches apart. Water the plants regularly, and fertilize them monthly with a balanced fertilizer.

Harvesting Corn Marigold Seeds

Corn marigold seeds can be harvested in the fall. To harvest the seeds, simply wait until the flowers have faded and the seed heads have turned brown. Cut the seed heads off the plants, and place them in a paper bag. Allow the seeds to dry for a few weeks, and then store them in a cool, dry place.

Conclusion

Corn marigold is a beautiful and beneficial flower that is easy to grow and care for. It is a great choice for gardeners of all levels of experience.

Herbs

How to Grow St. John’s Wort: A Comprehensive Guide

by Gregory June 2, 2024

written by Gregory 3 minutes read

How to Grow St. John’s Wort

What is St. John’s Wort?

St. John’s wort (Hypericum spp.) is a genus of plants that includes annuals, perennials, and shrubs. It’s known for its bright yellow flowers and prominent stamens. Some species develop red-brown berries in the fall. The most well-known species is Hypericum perforatum, which is native to Europe and Asia.

Is St. John’s Wort Poisonous?

Yes, all plants in the St. John’s wort genus are mildly poisonous to people and animals. Large doses can cause sensitivity to light, leading to dermatitis. Consuming large quantities can even be fatal.

How to Grow St. John’s Wort

St. John’s wort is easy to grow and tolerant of a wide range of conditions. It prefers moist but well-drained soil and full sun to partial shade. Shrubby varieties can become untidy and should be pruned in spring.

Where to Grow St. John’s Wort

Hypericum perforatum is perfect for wildflower meadows and other natural planting schemes. Shrubby types are ideal for ornamental borders, while low-growing varieties can be used as ground cover. Some species, like Hypericum inodorium, can even be grown in pots.

How to Plant St. John’s Wort

Plant St. John’s wort like any other plant. Dig a hole slightly wider but no deeper than the original pot. Gently loosen any tangled roots and place the plant in the hole. Fill in with soil and firm around the base. Water well.

St. John’s Wort Care

All St. John’s worts are easy to care for. They can tolerate temporary flooding, but they will benefit from extra watering during droughts, especially young plants. Shrubby varieties may need to be cut back in spring to keep them tidy.

How to Propagate St. John’s Wort

Hypericum perforatum is a prolific self-seeder, so you may find yourself removing seedlings rather than trying to propagate it. Larger, shrubby types can be propagated from hardwood cuttings.

Pests and Diseases

St. John’s wort is not typically bothered by pests or diseases.

Types of St. John’s Wort to Grow

There are many different types of St. John’s wort to choose from, including:

Hypericum hidcoteense ‘Hidcote’: A popular variety with masses of yellow blooms and red-brown berries.
Hypericum moserianum ‘Tricolor’: A low-growing variety perfect for ground cover.
Hypericum inodorium ‘Magical White’: Bears yellow flowers and white fruits. Can be grown in pots or as ground cover.
Hypericum elodes: Suitable for moist soils and perfect for edging ponds.
Hypericum x dummeri ‘Peter Dummer’: A low-growing shrub with yellow flowers and orange stamens.
Hypericum ‘Magical Red Flame’: A compact shrub with flowers and fruit that appear at the same time.
Hypericum ‘Gemo’: A low-growing shrub with large yellow flowers and red-blushed fruits.

Gardening

Cotton Lavender: A Comprehensive Growing Guide for Beginners

by Gregory April 26, 2024

written by Gregory 2 minutes read

Cotton Lavender: A Guide for Gardeners

Introduction

Cotton lavender (Santolina chamaecyparissus) is a popular small shrub known for its attractive silvery foliage and masses of bright yellow flowers in summer. Despite its name, it’s not related to lavender or cotton.

Characteristics

Cotton lavender forms a compact, bushy mound of evergreen foliage. Its finely divided leaves give it a feathery appearance and are aromatic when bruised. The button-like flowers are up to 2cm across and borne on straight, slender stems.

Growing Conditions

Sunlight: Full sun
Soil: Well-drained, chalky, alkaline, light, or sandy
Planting: Autumn or early to mid-spring in colder areas, autumn in milder areas
Watering: During dry spells for the first growing season, until established

Maintenance

Pruning: Twice yearly – cut back hard in mid-spring and remove dead flower stems in late summer.
Other: Check for signs of disease or damage before buying or planting.

Benefits

Drought tolerant
Non-toxic
Ideal for border edges, raised beds, and dwarf hedges

Additional Information

Plant calendar: Plant in March, April, May, or September. Flowers from May to July. Divide in March, April, September, or October. Cut back in February or March.
Wildlife value: No known particular value to wildlife in the UK.
Toxicity: Non-toxic to humans, animals, and livestock.

Conclusion

Cotton lavender is an easy-to-grow shrub that adds beauty and texture to any garden. With its attractive foliage, bright flowers, and low maintenance requirements, it’s a great choice for both novice and experienced gardeners.

Gardening

Golden Star Plants: The Ultimate Guide to Growing and Caring for This Versatile Ground Cover

by Donna April 21, 2024

written by Donna 3 minutes read

Golden Star Plants: A Versatile and Easy-Care Ground Cover

Introduction

Golden star plants, also known as green-and-gold, are native to the eastern United States. They are prized for their bright yellow-gold flowers that bloom continuously from spring until autumn. Golden star plants are ideal for ground cover, borders, and edging. They are also a low-maintenance choice for steep banks, where they can help to prevent erosion.

Growing Golden Stars

Growing golden star plants is easy. They need at least half a day of sunlight, but they can tolerate less light. However, the foliage will be looser and the flowers will be smaller and fewer in number in low-light conditions. Golden star plants can grow in almost any type of soil, but they prefer well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter.

Space the plants 8 to 18 inches apart and allow them to spread and fill in the area. One of the best varieties for ground cover is C. virginianum var. austral, which is sold under the cultivar name ‘Eco-Lacquered Spider.’ This cultivar spreads quickly by taking root wherever its stolons come in contact with the soil. It also self-seeds, and the seedlings germinate in spring.

Care of Golden Star Ground Cover

Water the plants regularly to keep the soil evenly moist but not soggy. A thin layer of mulch can help the soil retain moisture and reduce weeds. However, avoid using too much mulch, as this can slow the spread of the plants.

Every other year, the plants should be lifted and divided or transplanted to another area. This helps to rejuvenate the plants and prevent them from becoming overcrowded. When lifting the plants, shake them to remove as much soil as possible. This will stimulate the roots and encourage new growth.

Golden star plants are sometimes bothered by slugs and snails. To control these pests, use slug and snail bait. Be sure to read the label carefully to choose a product that is safe for use around children, pets, and wildlife.

Benefits of Golden Star Plants

Golden star plants offer a number of benefits, including:

Continuous blooming from spring until autumn
Bright yellow-gold flowers that add a cheerful touch to any landscape
Low maintenance requirements
Tolerance for a variety of soil types
Ability to spread quickly and fill in bare areas
Resistance to pests and diseases

Conclusion

Golden star plants are a versatile and easy-care ground cover that is perfect for a variety of landscaping needs. They are a low-maintenance choice that will add beauty and interest to your yard for years to come.

Shrubs

Jerusalem Sage: A Low-Maintenance Shrub for Arid Gardens and Problem Sites

by Donna March 12, 2024

written by Donna 4 minutes read

Jerusalem Sage: A Hardy Shrub for Challenging Conditions

Introduction

Jerusalem sage is a remarkable shrub that thrives in dry, harsh environments. Native to the Middle East, this drought-tolerant plant is an excellent choice for arid climates and problem planting sites. Its cheerful yellow flowers and attractive foliage add beauty and interest to gardens throughout the year.

Jerusalem Sage Information

What is Jerusalem Sage?

Jerusalem sage is a shrub that belongs to the mint family. Despite its name, it is not related to the common sage used in cooking. It gets its name from its soft, pale green leaves that resemble those of a sage plant.

Varieties and Growth Habits

There are several species of Jerusalem sage, but the most popular is Phlomis fruticosa. This evergreen shrub typically grows to a height and spread of 3 to 4 feet. In warmer climates (USDA zones 8-11), it remains evergreen throughout the year. In colder climates (zones 7, 6, and sometimes zone 5), it behaves as a perennial, dying back to the ground in winter and regrowing from its roots in spring.

Blooming and Fruiting

In late spring and summer, Jerusalem sage produces an abundance of bright yellow flowers on the upper ends of its stems. If the spent flowers are promptly removed (deadheaded), the plant will often bloom again later in the season. After flowering, the plant develops attractive seed heads that add interest to the garden.

Jerusalem Sage Care

Growing Conditions

The key to growing Jerusalem sage successfully is to provide conditions that mimic its native Mediterranean climate. It thrives in well-draining soil and can tolerate drought conditions. It will also perform well in poor soil, but it prefers fertile soil for optimal growth.

Sunlight and Water

Jerusalem sage requires full sun to thrive. In shady areas, it tends to become leggy and less floriferous. It is very heat-tolerant and can withstand the hottest part of summer. Water sparingly, as overwatering can lead to root rot.

Propagation

Jerusalem sage is easy to propagate from seed, cuttings, or layering. For best results, sow seeds in spring or take cuttings in summer.

Companion Planting

Jerusalem sage is an excellent companion plant for other drought-tolerant species, such as lavender, rosemary, and yarrow. Its vibrant yellow flowers attract pollinators, making it beneficial for gardens.

Troubleshooting

Leggy Growth

If Jerusalem sage becomes leggy, it is likely due to insufficient sunlight. Prune back the stems to encourage bushier growth and move the plant to a sunnier location.

Pests and Diseases

Jerusalem sage is generally pest- and disease-resistant. However, it can occasionally be affected by aphids or spider mites. Treat infestations with insecticidal soap or neem oil.

Benefits of Jerusalem Sage

Drought Tolerance

Jerusalem sage is an ideal choice for arid climates and gardens that receive minimal watering. Its drought tolerance makes it a low-maintenance plant that can thrive even in the most challenging conditions.

Attractive Foliage and Flowers

Jerusalem sage’s soft, pale green leaves and cheerful yellow flowers provide year-round interest in the garden. Its attractive seed heads add another layer of beauty in the fall and winter.

Pollinator Friendly

The bright yellow flowers of Jerusalem sage are a magnet for pollinators, such as bees and butterflies. By incorporating this plant into your garden, you can support beneficial insects and promote biodiversity.

Conclusion

Jerusalem sage is a versatile and resilient shrub that adds beauty, interest, and ecological benefits to any garden. Its drought tolerance, attractive foliage, and cheerful yellow flowers make it an excellent choice for arid climates, problem planting sites, and anyone looking for a low-maintenance plant.

Flower Gardening

Brighten Your Garden with Yellow Flowers: A Guide to Choosing, Planting, and Care

by Donna January 7, 2024

written by Donna 3 minutes read

Yellow Flowers: A Guide to Brightening Your Garden

Introduction

Yellow flowers add a cheerful touch to any garden. They come in a wide variety of shades, from pale lemon to deep gold, and can be used to create a variety of effects.

Choosing Yellow Flowers

When choosing yellow flowers for your garden, consider the following factors:

Bloom time: Some yellow flowers bloom in spring, while others bloom in summer or autumn. Choose flowers that will bloom during the time of year you want to add color to your garden.
Size and shape: Yellow flowers come in a variety of sizes and shapes. Consider the size and shape of your garden when choosing flowers.
Growing conditions: Some yellow flowers are easy to grow, while others require more care. Choose flowers that are well-suited to the growing conditions in your garden.

Planting and Care

Once you’ve chosen your yellow flowers, it’s time to plant them. Most yellow flowers prefer to be planted in well-drained soil that receives full sun. Water your flowers regularly, especially during hot weather.

Different Types of Yellow Flowers

There are many different types of yellow flowers, including:

Daffodils: These cheerful flowers are a sign of spring. They come in a variety of shades of yellow, from pale lemon to deep gold.
Roses: Yellow roses are a classic choice for gardens. They come in a variety of sizes and shapes, and many varieties are fragrant.
Sunflowers: These tall, stately flowers are a favorite of pollinators. They come in a variety of sizes and colors, including yellow.
Marigolds: These easy-to-grow flowers are a great choice for beginners. They come in a variety of colors, including yellow.
Coneflowers: These daisy-shaped flowers are a favorite of butterflies and bees. They come in a variety of colors, including yellow.

Using Yellow Flowers in Your Garden

Yellow flowers can be used in a variety of ways in the garden. Here are a few ideas:

Create a focal point: Plant a mass of yellow flowers to create a focal point in your garden.
Add height to your garden: Plant tall yellow flowers, such as sunflowers or verbascums, to add height to your garden.
Attract pollinators: Plant yellow flowers that are attractive to pollinators, such as sunflowers or marigolds.
Create a cheerful atmosphere: Yellow flowers are a great way to add a cheerful touch to your garden.

With so many different types of yellow flowers to choose from, you’re sure to find the perfect ones to brighten up your garden.

Gardening

Basket-of-Gold: Growing and Caring for Golden Sunshine in Your Garden

by Gregory October 24, 2021

written by Gregory 4 minutes read

Basket-of-Gold: A Guide to Growing Golden Sunshine in Your Garden

Introduction

Basket-of-gold plants, also known as yellow alyssum or basket-of-gold alyssum, are cheerful and easy-to-grow plants that add a splash of sunshine to any garden. Their bright gold flowers resemble tiny coins and bloom in abundance, creating a dazzling display. This guide will provide you with all the information you need to successfully grow and care for basket-of-gold plants in your garden.

Plant Characteristics

Basket-of-gold plants (Aurinia saxtilis) are low-growing perennials that typically reach a height of 1 foot (30 cm) and a width of 2 feet (60 cm). They are native to Europe and Asia and are closely related to rock cresses (Arabis spp.) rather than sweet alyssum. The plants feature attractive gray-green leaves and produce masses of small, star-shaped flowers in shades of yellow, lemon-yellow, or peachy-yellow.

Growing Conditions

Basket-of-gold plants thrive in sunny locations with well-draining soil. They prefer average soil conditions and do not tolerate rich or overly moist sites. To ensure optimal growth, plant your basket-of-golds in a location that receives at least 6 hours of sunlight per day and has soil that drains well.

Planting

You can start basket-of-gold plants from seeds or bedding plants. If starting from seeds, sow them directly in the garden in summer or start them indoors 6-8 weeks before the last frost. For bedding plants, set them out in early fall. Space the plants 6-12 inches apart.

Watering

Basket-of-gold plants require regular watering, especially when they are young. Once established, they are drought-tolerant and can withstand occasional dry spells. Water deeply and infrequently, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between waterings. Avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot.

Fertilizing

Fertilize basket-of-gold plants lightly every other year or so. Use a balanced organic fertilizer or a couple of handfuls of compost scattered around the plants in fall. Avoid over-fertilizing, as this can result in poor flowering and a loss of the plant’s compact shape.

Maintenance

To keep your basket-of-gold plants looking their best, shear off the top one-third of the plants after the petals drop in summer. This shearing will revitalize the plants and prevent them from going to seed. Basket-of-gold plants do not need division to stay healthy, but you can divide them right after shearing if desired.

Troubleshooting

Die-back in hot, humid climates: Basket-of-gold plants may die back in midsummer in hot, humid climates. If this occurs, try growing them as annuals or move them to a shadier location.
Root rot: Root rot can occur if the soil is too moist. Ensure that the soil drains well and avoid overwatering.
Poor flowering: Over-fertilizing can lead to poor flowering. Fertilize lightly and only every other year or so.

Companion Plants

Basket-of-gold flowers make excellent companions for spring bulbs and sedums. Their bright yellow blooms complement the colors of tulips, daffodils, and hyacinths. They also pair well with the fleshy leaves and colorful flowers of sedums.

Cultivars

There are several cultivars of Aurinia saxtilis available, including:

‘Citrinum’: Features lemon-yellow flowers
‘Sunny Border Apricot’: Produces peachy-yellow blossoms
‘Gold Dust’: Compact variety with bright yellow flowers

Conclusion

Basket-of-gold plants are easy-to-grow and low-maintenance perennials that add a touch of golden sunshine to any garden. By following the tips outlined in this guide, you can successfully grow and enjoy these cheerful plants for years to come.

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