Coneflowers (Echinacea species) are a favorite perennial of millions of gardeners, and growing Echinacea from seed is fun and easy, if you follow the strategies I’m about to share. In this article I’ll introduce 3 methods of planting Echinacea seeds and the correct timing for each technique. With a little patience and forethought, you can grow hundreds of coneflower plants for the price of a single packet of seeds.
About EchinaceaBefore we dive into seed planting techniques, let me introduce you to this wonderful plant. There are just under a dozen different species of Echinacea and all are native to North America. The most popular species is the purple coneflower, Echinacea purpurea, though the pale purple coneflower (Echinacea pallida) and the yellow coneflower (Echinacea paradoxa) are two of my personal favorites. There are also dozens if not hundreds of different hybrids and cultivars, most created by plant breeders, with more entering the market every year.
All Echinacea species have distinctive daisy-like blooms with a cone-like central disk that come in shades of pink, purple, yellow, orange, red, and white. They are a drought-tolerant hardy perennial and a welcome mat for pollinators, such as bees and butterflies, and other beneficial insects. Echinacea is also often grown by herbalists and used as a traditional medicinal plant to fend off cold and flu symptoms.
Why you should be growing Echinacea from seedPurchasing mature coneflower plants at the nursery can be an expensive proposition. A plant in a gallon-sized pot could cost $20 to $30. Growing Echinacea from seed is so simple and cost effective, I’m always surprised that more gardeners don’t try their hand at the task.
Aside from your ability to grow many
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