How to Grow Gaillardia from Seed: 7 Easy Steps

Gaillardia, also known as blanket flower, is a colorful and hardy perennial that’s perfect for adding a vibrant color and long-lasting blooms to your garden. In this guide, we will understand How to Grow Gaillardia from Seed, growing gaillardia from seed is an easy and exciting task.

Whether you’re interested in planting the Gaillardia aristata, the stunning Gaillardia Golden Beauty, or other varieties, here’s everything you need to know about growing gaillardia from seed. So, let’s get started!

Tools Required

For growing gaillardia from seeds, following items will be required:

Seed starting tray or pots
Well-draining potting mix
Spray bottle (for misting the water)
Garden Trowel (for transplanting seedlings)
Mulch ( mulching for winter care)
Watering can
Fertilizer (optional)

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When to Plant Gaillardia Seeds

The best time to plant Gaillardia seeds is in the spring, after the last frost has passed. You can also start growing Gaillardia indoors 6-8 weeks before the last frost. If you live in a region with mild winters, you can even sow seeds in late fall and them will start blooming before the spring arrives.

Before planting the blanket flower seeds, choose the right climate condition and timing to let the plant grow because the seedlings need warmth to thrive in. The seeds need light to germinate, so avoid covering them with soil.

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Step-by-Step Guide to Growing Gaillardia from Seed

Preparing the Soil and Planting Seeds

Gaillardia prefers well-drained soil and full sunlight. For planting blanket flowers, lightly sow the seeds into the soil and cover them with the thin layer of soil or cocopeat, keeping them little exposed to sunlight. Gaillardia loves full sunlight, so pick a location that gets at least 6 hours of sunlight a day.
If you’re planting gaillardia plant outdoors, then make sure that the soil is loose and fertile for better growth. Keep the soil moist but not too wet, make a better drainage system to avoid root rot problem.

Germination and Care for Seedlings

Gaillardia seedlings will begin to sprout in about 1-3 weeks, depending on the temperature and growing conditions. Gaillardia aristata seedlings can be transplanted once they have a few leaves and the risk of frost has passed. Keep them in a sunny spot with good air circulation.

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Growing and Winter Care for Blanket Flower

Once the Gaillardia seedlings starts sprouting, they’ll bloom by mid-summer. Make sure the Gaillardia seedlings receive proper sunlight. Water them regularly and avoid waterlogging condition, as the blanket flowers prefer sandy soil. The bloom time for Gaillardia usually starts from early summer to fall. To ensure proper winter care for the blanket flowers, mulch around the base of the plants to protect the roots. In colder regions, you can bring the potted plant indoors.

Propagating and Deadheading Gaillardia

Gaillardia typically starts blooming in early summer and can continue producing flowers until fall. Once the blooms appear, your garden will be filled with vibrant colors like reds, oranges, and yellows. You can easily propagate blanket flowers by collecting and planting Gaillardia seeds from your existing plants. Deadheading, or removing the spent blooms will encourage the new growth and extend it’s blooming period.

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How to Propagate Gaillardia

You can easily propagate Gaillardia, or blanket flower, by either seeds or dividing the plant saplings. To grow it from seed, collect the seeds from the dried flower heads after the blooms fade. Simply scatter them on well-draining soil, press them lightly, and water gently.

If you want to divide an existing plant, dig it up in early spring or fall, and carefully separate the roots into smaller sections before replanting. Both methods are very simple, and the gaillardia plants usually establish their roots quickly, after trnsplanting the plant place them in shade area for 3 days to avoid plant root shock.

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How to Care for Gaillardia Plant

Gaillardia is a low-maintenance plant, but it does best in full sun and well-drained soil. Water it regularly during dry climate conditions, but avoid overwatering as Gaillardia is drought-tolerant. Deadheading the spent flowers will encourage the plant to bloom more and it will keep your garden vibrant and colorful.

In winter, mulch around the base of the gaillardia plant to protect the roots from freezing cold temperatures. By following all these steps properly, your garden will be filled with beautiful and colorful gaillardia blooms from spring to fall.

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Winter Care for Blanket Flower

Gaillardia is a perennial in many regions, you’ll want to take care of it through the winter. If you’re growing Gaillardia Golden Beauty or other hardy varieties, they will likely survive the cold months. However, for extra protection, add a light layer of mulch around the plants before winter starts in.

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Conclusion

Growing Gaillardia from seed is a great way to add vibrant, low-maintenance flowers to your garden. With a bit of patience and care, you’ll enjoy bright vibrant blanket flowers blooms from spring through fall. Whether you’re planting blanket flowers for the first time or propagating from existing plants, or caring for Gaillardia seedlings, Gaillardia is a low-maintenance plant, these hardy flowers are perfect for both beginner and experienced gardeners. Hope it helps!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about How to Grow Gaillardia from Seed