Blanket Flower Seeds

Everything to Know about Blanket Flowers

Blanket flowers or Gaillardia are short-lived perennials renowned for their profuse, long-lasting, colorful mounds of daisy-like flowers. Some experts believe their name is in reference to the patterns found on Native American blankets, while others believe the name "blanket flower" refers to their habit of blanketing, or spreading, over an area. Resembling a cross between sunflowers and Black Eyed Susans, these gorgeous blooms are said to represent modesty, charm, and joy. Additionally, this flower is considered to be a sign of good luck by people in the Kiowa Tribe.

Where to Grow Blanket Flowers

Blanket Flower Seeds can be planted successfully anywhere in the United States but this species is especially beloved in arid areas with limited drainage. This species originated in southern and eastern North America. Although these flowers are drought tolerant, it is important to maintain moisture until they are established. Sow your blanket flower seeds, pressing them firmly onto the surface of the soil, approximately 12 to 18 inches apart. They prefer slightly cool soil to germinate with temperatures between 50 and 60°F. Additionally, blanket flowers need as much sunlight as possible. In any shade, plants will flower poorly and become stretched and floppy. For more bountiful blooms, add granulated flower plant fertilizer to your soil in the spring. Once established, blanket flower seeds will bloom until the first frost and require little care or maintenance.

Blanket flowers bloom from early summer to late fall, growing 10 to 12 inches if they are a dwarf variety, or 24 to 36 inches tall otherwise. They are easy to care for plants with few insect or disease problems and are most hardy in zones 3 to 9. Blanket flower seeds perform best in perennial borders, containers, cottage gardens, and the taller varieties make excellent cut flowers. In addition to their obvious aesthetic purposes, blanket flowers can be used medicinally for stomach issues and skin disorders.

How to Tend Blanket Flowers in your Garden

While blanket flowers are often relatively short lived, cutting back clumps to six inches in late summer often increases their chances of winter survival. You can also keep your plants thriving by dividing them every two to three years in spring or early fall. These blooms will attract pollinators while also deterring deer and other pests. Plant your blanket flower seeds near salvia, catmint, coreopsis, or coneflower.

After plants have wilted you can collect the seeds from the capitulum pods, dry them off, store them through the winter in an envelope kept away from moisture, and sow the seeds anew in spring!

For more information about planting, growing, and caring for blanket flower seeds, see the Blanket Flower Seeds Planting Guide.