Grow Blanket Flower from fresh Gaillardia aristata flower seeds. Blanket Flower is a gorgeous wildflower that produces 4 inch blooms all summer long up until late fall. The petals are deep red, accented by bright yellow tips and are formed much like a daisy. The Blanket flower is often seen in butterfly gardens and will attract an array of other beneficial insects as well. Ladybugs, hummingbirds and bumblebees also cling to these beauties. Gaillardia aristata will grow to a mature height of about 24 to 36 inches tall and roughly 12 inches wide. The leaves are just as attractive as the flowers themselves.
The Blanket Flower is grown as a perennial flowering plant, meaning the plants will grow quickly, establishing a deep root system, later returning the following year after all danger of frost has passed. They are also great when used as a cut flower. Although they are not popularly used as a Zinnia would be, you can add these flowers in bouquets and floral arrangements to boost the coloring in your display. Gaillardia can be established directly outdoors in flower beds and as stated before are very popularly used in the garden to attract butterflies.
Quick Facts
- Type: Flower
- Color: Red with yellow tips.
- Height: 24″ – 36″ Tall
- Width: 12″ Spread
- Season: Perennial
- Zones: 3 to 10
- Environment: Full sun
- Uses: Flower beds, along walkways, borders or driveways. Attracts beneficial insects such as butterflies and bumblebees.
Sowing The Seed
Gaillardia flower seeds are best established directly outdoors when the weather is warm and all danger of frost has passed. Prepare the sowing area by loosening the soil prior to sprinkling your seeds to the surface. Press in each seed at a depth of about 1/8″ under topsoil to make sure that they can still receive light for successful germination.
Growing Conditions
Blanket Flower will thrive in an area of full sunlight and also does best n temperatures of 70F or higher. The soil should be loose and well drained. To improve drainage, we recommend adding a light compost to any hard, compacted soil. Water daily so that the seeds receive moderate moisture until germination occurs. Blanket flower is drought resistant, so once plants are established they will require less care.
Germination & Growth
Blanket Flower seeds should start to germinate within 10 to 20 days after sowing. The plants themselves will reach a mature height of about 24 to 36 inches tall and can be spaced a good 12 to 18 inches apart from one another. The plants grow quickly, producing lovely 4 inch red flowers that are accented by golden yellow tips. Can be used as a cut flower.