Coreopsis, also known as Tickweed is a delightful drought-tolerant and long-blooming flower. They are lovely as a border or in gardens, but I love them towards the end of summer in pots. Their deep jewel tones nod to the  upcoming autumn season. Like daisies, coreopsis are showy and sturdy. They are native to North America, growing in upright clumps and flowering throughout the summer and into late fall.

What do they look like?

There are nearly 80 different varieties of coreopsis, and both the foliage and flowers vary. Some boast large green leaves while others are pretty narrow. As far as the flowers go, they have with teethed petals which are often grooved. Colours range from deep, vibrant golden yellow, like Burpee’s ‘Moonbeam’ to purple and popular multi-coloured varieties like this. They really flower abundantly, with some having upwards of 100 blooms per plant. It should also be noted that there are single and double-flowered versions.

How to Care for Them:

Coreopsis can be grown in containers at least 8 inches deep and wide. They grow best in full sun, with well-drained soil and regular watering. They will not fare well if their roots stay soggy. They can tolerate hot days and cool nights with some varieties being more cold-hardy than others. These beauties should bloom all summer until well into fall if you keep spent blossoms dead-headed.

Dividing/ Propagating:

Though coreopsis are tough little garden workhorses, they don’t live longer than 5 years. If you notice that your plant is starting to falter, it’s usually an indicator that you should consider dividing them. It’s very simple if you follow these steps:

First, dig up a clump or upend a potted mature plant. Try not to damage the roots.

Next, use a sharp garden knife or trowel to slice the clump into smaller plants. Try to make sure each section has a healthy amount of roots.

Finally, replant your new plant babies. Keep them well-watered until their roots have a chance to take hold. Probably a few weeks.

Growing Coreopsis from Seed

Wondering how to grow coreopsis from seed? It’s pretty easy, too. Select your seeds and plant o start them indoors about 6 weeks before your area’s last frost date. Plant the seeds in a container that has great drainage and quality soil. the seeds should be planted at a depth of 1/2 an inch and keep the soil damp until the seedlings emerge, usually in about 18 days. Once they have broken through the soil, place them in a sunny window and continue to water regularly so they don’t dry out. (Again, friendly reminder that coreopsis don’t like their “feet wet” so don’t over water!

If you want to transfer them outside, be sure to “harden them off” by setting them outside for a few hours at a time for about a week.