Blanket flowers (Gaillardia) are cheerful, drought-tolerant perennials that bring vibrant colors to any garden space. Propagating them allows gardeners to increase their stock, share with others, or rejuvenate older plants. This ensures a continuous display of their warm-toned, daisy-like blooms.
Propagating Blanket Flowers from Seed
Propagating blanket flowers from seed is a common method to expand your garden. Seeds can be started indoors 6 to 8 weeks before the last expected frost date. Alternatively, direct sow outdoors after the danger of frost has passed in spring, or in fall in regions with mild winters.
To collect seeds from existing plants, allow spent blooms to dry completely on the plant. Once the flower heads are dry and crispy, the wispy, black-centered seeds can be easily brushed off or separated. Store mature, dry seeds in a cool, dry, dark place until planting.
For indoor sowing, gather seed-starting trays or small pots, a well-draining seed-starting mix, a watering can, and labels. Fill containers with pre-moistened mix. Scatter seeds lightly on the surface, as they require light to germinate and should not be buried more than 1/8 inch deep. After sowing, gently mist the surface to ensure good seed-to-soil contact and consistent moisture.
Maintain a soil temperature between 65°F and 75°F for optimal germination, which typically occurs within 8 to 20 days. Provide bright light for 12 to 16 hours daily using a sunny windowsill or grow lights to prevent leggy seedlings. Once seedlings develop two or more sets of true leaves, thin them to 6 to 12 inches apart. Before transplanting outdoors, harden off young plants by gradually exposing them to outdoor conditions over 7 to 10 days. Transplant hardened-off seedlings into the garden once daytime temperatures consistently stay above 50°F and all frost danger has passed.
Propagating Blanket Flowers by Division
Propagating blanket flowers by division is effective for established, mature plants. This rejuvenates overgrown plants, improves their vigor, and provides new plants. Division is best performed in early spring or early fall. Dividing plants every two to three years helps maintain their health and vigor, as blanket flowers are short-lived perennials with an average lifespan of about two years.
Water the plant thoroughly a day before dividing to ensure a moist root ball. Gather a spade or garden fork, and a sharp knife or pruners. Carefully dig a circle 6 to 8 inches around the plant’s base, then gently lift the entire root ball.
Once lifted, gently shake off excess dirt to expose the roots. Tease roots apart with fingers or use a sharp, sterile knife to divide the plant into sections. Each new section needs healthy roots and a few foliage shoots. Replant divisions immediately into a prepared area, spacing them 12 to 18 inches apart for ample growth and air circulation. Water newly planted divisions deeply to settle soil and encourage new growth.
Caring for Newly Propagated Blanket Flowers
Newly propagated blanket flowers, from seed or division, require care to establish. Maintain consistent moisture for young plants, checking soil frequently to keep it moist but not soggy. As plants mature, watering needs decrease, and they become drought-tolerant.
Blanket flowers thrive in full sun, requiring at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight daily for optimal growth and abundant flowering. They prefer well-draining soil and tolerate poor, sandy, or rocky conditions. Heavy clay soils are not recommended unless amended for drainage.
Young blanket flowers do not require heavy fertilization; a light application is sufficient. Over-fertilizing can promote foliage growth at the expense of blooms. Protecting delicate seedlings from pests or harsh weather is beneficial during their initial growth.
Many blanket flower varieties grown from seed may not bloom in their first year, with some blooming in the second. Newer varieties are bred to bloom in their first year from seed. Plants propagated by division typically bloom in their first season after transplanting.