When to Plant Black Eyed Susan: A Guide for Gardeners

If you're looking to add some color to your garden, you can't go wrong with black eyed susans. These bright yellow flowers with their distinctive black centers are a favorite of many gardeners, and for good reason. They're easy to grow, low maintenance, and attract pollinators like bees and butterflies. But when is the best time to plant black eyed susans? In this article, we'll give you some tips on when and how to plant these beautiful flowers.

Planting Black Eyed Susans in the Spring

Black eyed susans are hardy, vigorous plants that thrive in full sun and well-draining soil. They're drought-tolerant and can handle a range of temperatures, making them a great choice for gardeners in many regions. If you're planning to plant black eyed susans in the spring, there are a few things to keep in mind.

First, make sure the soil has warmed up to at least 50掳F (10掳C) before planting. You can use a soil thermometer to check the temperature. Black eyed susans prefer soil that is slightly acidic to neutral, with a pH between 6.0 and 7.0. If your soil is too alkaline, you can add some peat moss or sulfur to lower the pH.

Once the soil is ready, you can plant your black eyed susans. Dig a hole slightly larger than the root ball of the plant, and place it in the hole. Make sure the top of the root ball is level with the soil surface. Fill in the hole with soil and lightly tamp it down. Water the plant thoroughly to help it settle in.

Planting Black Eyed Susans in the Fall

If you don't have time to plant your black eyed susans in the spring, you can also plant them in the fall. This gives them a chance to establish their roots before the cold weather sets in, so they can start growing strong in the spring.

The best time to plant black eyed susans in the fall is about 4 to 6 weeks before the first frost. This will give them enough time to establish their roots before the ground freezes. Make sure to water them well after planting, and mulch around the plants to help insulate them during the winter.

Caring for Black Eyed Susans

Once your black eyed susans are planted, they require minimal care. Water them occasionally during dry spells, and fertilize them once or twice a year with a balanced fertilizer. Deadhead the flowers regularly to encourage more blooms, and cut back the plants in the fall after the first frost.

If you live in an area with severe winters, you may want to cover your black eyed susans with a layer of mulch or leaves to protect them from the cold. In the spring, remove the mulch to allow the plants to grow.

In Conclusion

Black eyed susans are beautiful and easy to grow, making them a great choice for both novice and experienced gardeners. Whether you plant them in the spring or fall, they'll add a burst of color to your garden and attract pollinators to help your other plants thrive. With a little care and attention, your black eyed susans will reward you with years of bright, cheerful blooms. So, when is the best time to plant black eyed susans? It depends on your region and your gardening goals, but with the tips in this article, you'll be well on your way to a successful black eyed susan garden.