Black Eyed Susan Seeds

growing black eyed susan flowers from seed

Black Eyed Susan is perhaps the most emblematic of the classic North American wildflowers and a stalwart of any wildflower meadow. Often called "pioneer plants," these blooms are typically the first to grow in an area damaged by fire or natural disasters. In addition, Black Eyed Susans are the plant host of the Silvery Checkerspot butterfly caterpillar. This herbaceous plant belonging to the aster family originates from eastern and central parts of the United States but can be found naturalized all over North America. Fun fact: it's the state flower of Maryland!

ideal black eyed susan conditions

Black Eyed Susans, also referred to by their botanical name Rudbeckia hirta can be planted in any soil from sand to clay, as long as soil temperatures are around 70°F. These blooms are extremely resilient and will thrive whether they are started indoors or directly sown into your flower bed! Though they grow well in fairly dry soil, Black Eyed Susans perform best with occasional watering in dry weather and plenty of sunlight. They also love to be planted next to a multitude of different varieties such as zinnias and Gerber daisies.

Black Eyed Susans typically grow anywhere between 12 and 27 inches tall, offering upright branching and ovate shaped leaves. These fast-growing heirlooms perform best when planted about six to eight inches apart to avoid crowding. Oftentimes Black Eyed Susans will bloom in spring, summer, or fall depending on your zone and when the seeds are started. It is important to note that these plants will mature approximately 60 to 90 days after sowing and they prefer spring and fall planting.

what to expect when planting black eyed susan seeds

Blooms may not appear in the first growing year; they typically make their grand debut during the second year. But when these new blooms do arrive, prepare to be promptly greeted by pollinators such as bees and hummingbirds, as they will greatly appreciate these beautiful, daisy-like flowers! In addition to being pollinator attractors, Black Eyed Susans are deer resistant, drought tolerant, and poor soil tolerant. To sum it up, these flowers are incredibly easy to grow and maintain and make a lovely, low maintenance addition to any garden! Additionally. If you wish to use your blooms in a cut flower arrangement, Black Eyed Susans have a vase life of six to ten days and look beautiful next to just about any variety!

If planting in a smaller area (80 square feet or less), a packet of Eden Brothers' Black Eyed Susans will be plenty. However, we offer this variety in packages up to five pounds, covering up to 1.3 acres of land!

For more information about planting, growing, and caring for Black Eyed Susan flower seeds, see the Black Eyed Susan Seeds Planting Guide.