Collection: Gaillardia Seeds (heirloom)

All about growing the best heirloom gaillardia

Heirloom gaillardia, commonly known as blanket flower, are short-lived perennials with daisy-like flowers that bloom prolifically and last for years. Some experts believe it's nickname "blanket flower" relates to the pattern found on Native American blankets, while others believe it refers to its ability to blanket, or spread, throughout an area. These gorgeous blooms, which seem like a cross between sunflowers and Black Eyed Susans, are said to represent modesty, charm, and joy. This flower is also regarded as a sign of good fortune by the Kiowa Tribe.

How to plant heirloom gaillardia seeds in your garden

Heirloom gaillardia seeds may be grown everywhere in the United States, although this species is particularly popular in arid, low-draining areas. This species is endemic to the southern and eastern parts of North America. Despite the fact that these flowers are drought resistant, it is vital to keep them moist until they establish themselves. Heirloom gaillardia flower seeds should be sown 12 to 18 inches apart, firmly into the soil surface. They thrive on soil that is between 50 and 60 °F. Heirloom gaillardia blooms demand as much light as possible. In any shade, plants will bloom poorly and get stressed and floppy. Apply granulated flower plant fertilizer to your soil in the spring to encourage more blooms. Heirloom gaillardia flower seeds bloom until the first frost, and once planted, they require little care or upkeep.

Health and beauty benefits of heirloom gaillardia

Heirloom gaillardia flowers from early summer to late fall, reaching a height of 10 to 12 inches for dwarf varieties and 24 to 36 inches for non-dwarf varieties. They're low-maintenance plants with little insect or disease problems that thrive in zones 3 through 9. Seeds of heirloom gaillardia flourish in perennial borders, pots, and cottage gardens, and the taller varieties produce excellent cut flowers. In addition to its obvious beauty benefits, heirloom gaillardia flowers may be used medicinally for stomach and skin disorders.

Companion plants to grow with heirloom gaillardia

While heirloom gaillardia blossoms are usually short-lived, cutting clumps down to six inches in late summer increases their chances of making it through the winter. To maintain your plants' health, divide them every two to three years in the spring or early fall. These blooms will attract pollinators, while deer and other pests will be kept away. Heirloom gaillardia flower seeds should be sown near salvia, catmint, coreopsis, or coneflower.

Harvesting heirloom gaillardia seeds

After the plants have wilted, harvest the seeds from the capitulum pods, dry them, keep them in an envelope away from moisture during the winter, and sow the seeds again in the spring!

For more information about planting, growing, and caring for heirloom gaillardia seeds, see the Gaillardia Flower Seeds Planting Guide.