How to Plant Blanket Flower Seeds

Blanket flowers, known for their vibrant and cheerful blooms, are a wonderful addition to any garden. These hardy perennials are not only easy to grow from seeds but also attract pollinators like bees and butterflies, making them a favorite among gardeners. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced gardener, planting blanket flower seeds is a rewarding process that results in a stunning display of color throughout the growing season.

This guide on how to plant blanket flower seeds will take you through the steps to successfully plant and care for these remarkable flowers.

About Blanket Flowers

Blanket flowers, scientifically known as Gaillardia, are a vibrant and resilient addition to any garden. They are renowned for their fiery, daisy-like blooms that come in a range of bright colors, typically featuring striking combinations of reds, oranges, and yellows. The name “blanket flower” is thought to originate from the flower’s resemblance to the colorful patterns of Native American blankets.

These flowers thrive in sunny locations and are well-suited for a variety of climates, as they are drought-tolerant and capable of enduring poor soil conditions. Beyond their aesthetic appeal, blanket flowers are low-maintenance and long-blooming, making them a popular choice for gardeners who want to enjoy continual beauty throughout the summer and early fall.

Choosing the Right Blanket Flower Seeds

When selecting blanket flower seeds, it’s important to consider your specific gardening needs and conditions. Blanket flowers come in a variety of cultivars, offering diverse color patterns ranging from warm reds and yellows to more subdued orange and peach tones. If you’re looking to attract pollinators like bees and butterflies, opt for open-pollinated or native varieties.

Consider the height of the plants as well; some varieties grow in compact mounds, perfect for borders or containers, while others can reach over two feet and work well in mixed flower beds. Always check seed packages for details on growth habits, light requirements, and bloom times to ensure they align with the conditions in your garden and your gardening goals.

When to Plant Blanket Flower Seeds?

The best time to plant blanket flower seeds depends on your local climate and growing conditions. For most regions, spring is ideal, once the danger of frost has passed and the soil has warmed. This ensures optimal germination and healthy growth. If you live in a region with a long growing season, you can also sow seeds in late summer or early fall for blooms the following year.

Additionally, starting seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before the last expected frost gives the plants a head start, allowing them to establish quickly once transplanted outdoors. Always follow specific planting guidelines mentioned on your seed packet for best results.

Needed Materials

• High-quality Seeds
• Seed Starting Trays or Containers
• Seed Starting Mix
• Watering Can or Spray Bottle
• Grow Lights (if Starting Indoors)
• Labels for Identifying Plants

8 Step-by-Step Guidelines on How to Plant Blanket Flower Seeds

Step 1: Choose the Right Seeds 

Select high-quality blanket flower seeds from a trusted supplier to ensure healthy and vibrant plants. Look for seeds that are specifically labeled as fresh and suitable for your growing region.

Consider varieties that match your preferences, whether you’re looking for bold, vibrant colors or blooms suited to specific conditions like drought tolerance. Always check the seed packet for details on planting zones and germination rates to make an informed decision.

Step 2: Prepare Your Containers and Soil 

Choose containers with proper drainage holes to prevent waterlogging, which can harm your blanket flower seedlings. Fill the containers with a high-quality, well-draining potting mix that’s rich in organic matter.

Consider mixing in some sand or perlite to improve aeration, as blanket flowers thrive in light, airy soil. Before planting, moisten the soil slightly to ensure it is damp but not waterlogged. Proper preparation of your containers and soil sets the foundation for healthy plant growth. 

Step 3: Plant Your Seeds

Once your containers and soil are ready, it’s time to plant your blanket flower seeds. Scatter the seeds evenly across the surface of the soil, ensuring they are spaced slightly apart to allow each seedling room to grow. Press the seeds gently into the soil without burying them too deeply, as blanket flower seeds require light to germinate.

A light dusting of soil to hold them in place is sufficient. After planting, mist the surface lightly with water to keep the seeds moist. Place the containers in a warm, sunny location, as blanket flower seeds germinate best in temperatures between 70-75°F. With proper care, you should see sprouts emerging in 10-15 days.

Step 4: Provide Adequate Light and Temperature

Once the seedlings have sprouted, it is essential to provide them with plenty of light to ensure healthy growth. Place the containers in a location that receives at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily, such as a sunny windowsill or under grow lights designed for seedlings. Ensure the temperature stays consistently between 70-75°F, as fluctuations can stress the young plants.

If natural light is insufficient, supplement with full-spectrum grow lights placed 4-6 inches above the seedlings to promote strong, upright stems. Proper light and temperature conditions are crucial for producing robust blanket flower plants ready for transplanting.

Step 5: Water Regularly

Keeping the soil consistently moist is essential during the early growth stages of blanket flower seedlings. Use a gentle watering method, such as a spray bottle or a watering can with a fine nozzle, to avoid displacing the delicate young plants.

Allow the top inch of soil to dry out slightly between waterings to prevent overwatering and root rot. Proper watering ensures healthy root development and prepares the seedlings for successful transplantation.

Step 6: Provide Adequate Air Circulation 

Good air circulation is crucial for the healthy growth of blanket flower seedlings as it helps prevent fungal diseases and promotes stronger stems. Place the seedlings in a location with sufficient airflow, such as near an open window or a fan set to a low setting.

Be cautious not to expose them to strong drafts, as this could stress the young plants. Ensuring adequate air movement will create a more robust and disease-resistant environment for the seedlings.

Step 7: Fertilize as Needed 

Blanket flower seedlings thrive when provided with the necessary nutrients for healthy growth. Once the seedlings have developed their first set of true leaves, consider applying a diluted, balanced liquid fertilizer to support their development. Fertilize every two to three weeks, following the recommended dosage on the fertilizer label to avoid overfeeding, which can harm the seedlings.

Remember to water the seedlings thoroughly after fertilizing to help distribute the nutrients evenly and prevent fertilizer burn. Proper fertilization will encourage strong roots, vibrant foliage, and robust blooms as the plants mature.

Step 8: Transplanting Your Seedlings

Once your seedlings have grown strong and healthy, it’s time to transplant them into larger containers or directly into your garden bed. Make sure to harden off your seedlings before transplanting by gradually exposing them to outdoor conditions over the course of a week. This will help prevent transplant shock and give your seedlings a better chance at survival.

Following these steps on how to plant blanket flower seeds, you can now enjoy beautiful and vibrant blooms in your garden throughout the growing season. With proper care and maintenance, blanket flowers can continue to thrive year after year, making them a wonderful addition to any garden. Happy gardening!

Additional Tips for Growing Blanket Flowers

• Deadhead spent flowers regularly to promote continuous blooming.
• Water deeply once a week instead of light watering daily to encourage deep root growth.
• Apply a layer of mulch around the base of the plant to help retain moisture and suppress weeds.
• Fertilize with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring and again in mid-summer for optimal growth.
• Keep an eye out for pests such as aphids or spider mites, and treat them with organic methods if necessary.
• Dividing blanket flowers every 2-3 years can help rejuvenate older plants and promote better blooming.
• Consider planting companion plants such as purple coneflower or yarrow for a stunning color combination in your garden.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: How Often Should I Water My Blanket Flowers?

A: Blanket flowers are drought-tolerant and only need to be watered once a week, or when the soil feels dry to the touch.

Q2: Can I Grow Blanket Flowers in Containers?

A: Yes, you can grow blanket flowers in containers as long as they have good drainage and receive enough sunlight.

Q3: Do Blanket Flowers Attract Pollinators?

A: Yes, blanket flowers are loved by pollinators such as butterflies and bees due to their vibrant colors and nectar-rich blooms.

Q4: How Long Do Blanket Flowers Bloom?

A: Blanket flowers can bloom from early summer until the first frost, providing long-lasting color in your garden.

Conclusion

Blanket flowers are a versatile and vibrant addition to any garden, offering extended blooming periods and the ability to thrive in various environments, including containers. Their low maintenance requirements and ability to attract pollinators make them a favorite choice for gardeners looking to create a lively and colorful outdoor space.

With proper care and the right growing conditions, these hardy flowers can bring beauty and life to your garden for months on end. Thanks for reading this article on how to plant blanket flower seeds.