Learning Download: How to Grow Coreopsis

Coreopsis, also known as tickseed or pot of gold, is a long-lasting flower that grows in most any area in the United States. The plant is referred to as tickseed because its seeds resemble ticks.

Before Planting: Coreopsis are an easy flower to grow, and all they need is to be planted in an area that receives full sun.

Planting: The seeds require light to germinate, so don’t cover them and just press them lightly into the soil. Plant more seeds in succession to have Coreopsis blooms all summer long.

Watering: Coreopsis are native to the United States, and they only require watering during the extreme droughts.

Fertilizer: Coreopsis do not require fertilization. Fertilization can actually decrease the flower production.

Days to Maturity: Many kinds of Coreopsis will begin blooming in the early summer and last until fall.

Harvesting: Although Coreopsis self-sow, it is also possible to save the seeds for future planting. To do so, wait until after the flowers have bloomed and the petals begin to fall away from the center. Harvest the seed head while it is still tightly formed enough to keep the seeds enclosed. Snip off the seed head and open it to extract the seeds.

Tips: Cut the flowers back by one-third each summer, as this will encourage a continued display of blooms.