How to Plant Black Eyed Susan

Black eyed susans (Rudbeckia hirta) are a beautiful, easy-to-grow wildflower that can add bright pops of yellow to any garden or natural area. These cheerful flowers are a North American native and are a favorite of butterflies and bees. If you're looking to add black eyed susans to your outdoor space, read on for tips on how to plant them.

Preparing the Soil

Before you plant black eyed susans, make sure your soil is well-drained and has plenty of organic matter in it. If your soil is heavy clay or compacted, you can improve it by adding compost or well-rotted manure. If your soil is overly acidic, you can add lime to bring up the pH level. Black eyed susans prefer soil that is slightly acidic, with a pH of 6.0 to 7.5.

Sowing Seeds

Black eyed susans can be started from seed, which is the most cost-effective way to grow them. You can plant the seeds directly into the ground in the spring or fall, or start them indoors six weeks before the last expected frost. If you're planting outside, loosen the soil to a depth of at least 12 inches and sprinkle the seeds over the area. Be sure to keep the soil moist until the seeds germinate, which can take up to two weeks.

Transplanting Seedlings

If you started your black eyed susan seeds indoors, you'll need to transplant them after they've developed two true leaves. Choose a spot in your garden that gets full sun and has well-drained soil. Before you plant the seedlings, make sure the soil is moist but not waterlogged. Dig a hole slightly larger than the seedling's root ball and carefully place the plant in the hole. Gently press the soil around the plant, making sure the crown (the area where the stem meets the roots) is level with the soil surface. Water the plant thoroughly.

Caring for Black Eyed Susans

Black eyed susans are easy to care for once they're established. They prefer full sun but can tolerate light shade. Water them deeply once a week during dry spells, but be careful not to overwater them, as this can lead to root rot. Deadhead spent flowers to encourage more blooms and remove any diseased or damaged foliage. In the fall, cut back the plants to within 3 inches of the ground to prepare them for winter.

In conclusion, planting black eyed susans is a simple yet rewarding way to add color and texture to your outdoor space. Whether you choose to start them from seed or transplant seedlings, these hardy flowers will bring a touch of wild beauty to your garden. With the right care and attention, your black eyed susans will continue to bloom year after year.