Learning Download: How to Grow Echinacea

Echinacae, more commonly known as coneflower, are care-free heavy bloomers that bloom from summer to fall. It is an easy flower to grow from seed, and it is known to be drought resistant and long lasting.

Before Planting: Sprinkle seeds on a damp paper towel that has been folded in half. Fold the paper towel in half again to cover the seeds between the two damp halves. Then, place the paper towel in a plastic bag, seal it and keep it in a refrigerator for eight to 12 weeks. After the cold treatment, sow two coneflower seeds in 8-inch pots and cover with a small sprinkling of soil.

Planting: Once coneflowers produce their second set of true leaves, transplant them outside into an area that receives full sun.

Watering: During seasons where rainfall is normal, coneflowers do not require any additional watering.

Fertilizer: Since coneflowers thrive on poor soil, they don’t require much fertilizer to grow. However, a little bit can encourage the flowers.

Harvesting: Harvest seeds by clipping the heads of the plant when they have died. Pull off the petals and, while wearing gloves, rub the cone with your fingers to remove the seeds.

Tips: Once the flowers die at the end of the season, cut the plant back by a third.