If you’re searching for a resilient and stunning plant to add to your garden, look no further than black-eyed Susans. These vibrant yellow flowers are a staple in almost every perennial garden, thanks to their low-maintenance nature and abundant blooms. Not to mention, black-eyed Susans attract various pollinators, including goldfinches, butterflies, and hummingbirds. Let’s dive into the world of black-eyed Susans and learn how to grow them successfully.
Key Takeaways
Choosing the Perfect Black-Eyed Susans
Black-eyed Susans belong to the Rudbeckia genus, which encompasses both annual and perennial varieties. To ensure your flowers return year after year, opt for the perennial Rudbeckia fulgida species. While roadside wildflower packets usually contain the annual Rudbeckia hirta type, it’s best to check the contents list to confirm. When shopping at the garden center, look for the perennial section to find the perfect black-eyed Susans for your garden.
Ideal Growing Conditions for Black-Eyed Susans
Black-eyed Susans thrive under full sun exposure, requiring at least 6 to 8 hours of sunlight daily. While they can tolerate some shade, you may notice them stretching and reaching towards the light. Additionally, consider the height of your chosen varieties when deciding where to place them in your garden. Different types of black-eyed Susans can range from 18 inches to a towering 6 feet. Find out the expected height from the plant tag to determine their ideal placement.
Planting Black-Eyed Susans
Spring and early fall are the best seasons to plant black-eyed Susans. Ensure they have enough time to establish their roots before extreme weather conditions arrive.
To prepare the soil, use Miracle-Gro® All Purpose Garden Soil, which enhances the nutrient content. Blend 3 inches of this garden soil into the top 6 inches of your existing soil, or create a 50:50 mixture for individual planting holes. Combining high-quality soil with the right plant food is a recipe for beautiful blooms. More on that in a moment.
When planting the black-eyed Susans, follow these steps:
- Check the plant tag to determine the recommended spacing for your variety.
- Dig holes slightly wider and just as deep as each plant’s root ball.
- Remove the plants from their containers and place them in the holes, ensuring the top of the root ball is level with or slightly above the surrounding soil.
- Fill in the gaps with soil, firmly packing it down, and then water deeply.
- For moisture retention and weed prevention, lightly mulch around the plants. Keep the mulch away from the stems to avoid rotting.
Supporting Taller Varieties
While some black-eyed Susans grow no taller than 2 feet, taller varieties may require support. Insert a stake near the center of each plant without piercing it and use twine to gently tie the stems to the stake. Alternatively, create a lattice using 2 or 3 stakes, allowing the stems to curve gracefully.
Watering Black-Eyed Susans
Once black-eyed Susans are established, they do not require frequent watering. During the initial planting stage, water them well to encourage root growth and adjustment. Water when the top inch of soil around the plants feels dry. If you notice the leaves drooping, it’s a sign that the plants need watering. Remember, over-watering can cause more harm than under-watering, so err on the side of caution. When in doubt, wait another day before watering.
Feeding Black-Eyed Susans for Optimal Bloom
To stimulate abundant blooms, feed your black-eyed Susans in the spring with Miracle-Gro® Shake ‘N Feed® Ultra Bloom® Plant Food. This effective fertilizer contains natural ingredients like bone meal, earthworm castings, and kelp. These nutrients will nourish your plants and encourage a vibrant display of colorful blooms.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
During hot and humid summers, black-eyed Susans might develop powdery mildew on their leaves. To prevent this, water the base of each plant, keeping the leaves dry, and provide sufficient spacing between plants for improved airflow.
Deadheading and Pruning Tips
To prolong the blooming season of your black-eyed Susans, deadhead them by removing spent or faded flowers. Cut the stems just beyond a leaf to prevent unsightly dried-up stems. However, as blooming slows down, leave some flowers to produce seeds for birds and new plants in the following season. For an extended bloom period, trim back a third of the black-eyed Susan stems in early summer. This staggered pruning will ensure continuous enjoyment of their vibrant flowers.
Dividing Black-Eyed Susans
As black-eyed Susans spread and re-seed, they may become overcrowded. To maintain their health and vigor, divide the clumps in the spring once the plants start leafing out. Use a fork or spade to separate the clumps, giving each one additional space. Follow the planting instructions mentioned earlier for newly divided black-eyed Susans.
Black-eyed Susans are an excellent addition to any garden, providing a burst of color and attracting fascinating pollinators. With their simple care requirements and impressive resilience, growing black-eyed Susans will be a rewarding experience. Visit Ames Farm Center for a wide selection of black-eyed Susans and other gardening essentials.
