How to Grow and Care for Tickseeds
Introduction
Prized for its dependable nature and colorful, daisylike flowers,
coreopsis has a long bloom period and is generally troublefree and easy to grow. Another common name is tickseed.
About tickseeds
Coreopsis is tolerant of a variety of soil types and environmental conditions, making it a popular choice for home gardeners. Tall varieties can reach 4 feet in height and are good for the back of the border and in cutting gardens. Shorter, mounding varieties are more delicate and good for edging. Most coreopsis sport yellow flowers, although a pink variety is also available.
Special features of tickseeds
Easy care/low maintenance
Multiplies readily
Good for cut flowers
Tolerates dry soil
Choosing a site to grow tickseeds
Select a site with full sun and well-drained soil.
Planting Instructions
Plant in spring, spacing plants 2 to 3 feet apart, depending on the variety. Prepare the garden bed by using a garden fork or tiller to loosen the soil to a depth of 12 to 15 inches, then mix in a 2- to 4-inch layer of compost. Dig a hole twice the diameter of the pot the plant is in. Carefully remove the plant from its container and place it in the hole so the top of the rootball is level with the soil surface. Carefully fill in around the rootball and firm the soil gently. Water thoroughly.
Ongoing Care
Apply a thin layer of compost each spring, followed by a 2-inch layer of mulch to retain moisture and control weeds. Water plants during the summer if rainfall is less than 1 inch per week. Stake tall varieties to keep them upright. After the first killing frost, cut stems back to an inch or two above soil line. Divide plants every few years as new growth begins in the spring, lifting plants and dividing them into clumps.
