did you know?

The black-eyed Susan has been the state flower of Maryland since 1918. The striking black-and-gold colors of this native American flower are also found on Maryland's state flag.

general maintenance:

Deadhead spent blooms to encourage flowering. Remove old growth after frost or before new growth appears in spring.

pests/diseases:

Slugs and snails may attack leaves. Aphids and powdery mildew may occur.

controls:

Handpick snails and slugs, or spread diatomaceous earth around plants. Regularly hose off aphids with a directed stream of water, or apply insecticidal soap, following label directions. To discourage powdery mildew, place plants to facilitate air circulation, and avoid wetting leaves when watering. Pick off diseased leaves where practical, and remove severely infected plants.

how to sow/plant:

Start with new plants, spring and fall divisions or seed sown indoors, lightly pressed into soil, 6?8 weeks before last frost or broadcast in fall. Choose a sunny site with well-drained soil, and amend with well-rotted manure or compost before planting. Set plants 14?18 inches apart. Water upon planting. Mulch to conserve moisture.

water and fertilize:

Monitor soil all season to maintain moisture. Apply a balanced, all-purpose fertilizer at the beginning of the season, following label directions.

garden hint:

Black-eyed Susans can act like annuals, biennials, or short-lived perennials, depending on the local growing conditions. To be sure they stay in your garden, allow some flowers to produce seed and self-sow.

features:

• Attractive Flowers
• Attractive Foliage
• Attractive Fruit
• Attracts Butterflies
• Drought Tolerant
• Native

garden uses:

• Containers
• Flowerbed borders
• Naturalizing

other uses:

• Cut Flower

combine with:

tickseed coneflower and yarrow in a meadow garden.