Yarrow, also known as Achillea millefolium, is a hardy perennial plant that is easy to grow from seed. Yarrow is a popular choice for herb gardens, and its leaves and flowers have many medicinal properties. In this article, we will guide you through the steps of how to grow yarrow from seed, including tips on how to prevent and treat powdery mildew.
Yarrow seeds can be planted in early spring when the soil temperature is around 60°F (15°C). Yarrow seeds need light to germinate, so it is essential to sow them on the soil surface. You can sow the seeds directly in the garden beds or in containers.
If you are sowing yarrow seeds in containers, make sure to use a well-drained soil mix. Fill the container with the soil mix and lightly press the seeds onto the surface. Water the soil gently, being careful not to wash away the seeds. Cover the container with plastic wrap to retain moisture and place it in a warm and bright location.
When sowing yarrow seeds in garden beds, prepare the soil by removing weeds and rocks. Yarrow prefers well-drained soil, so you may need to add some sand or gravel to improve drainage. Sow the seeds on the soil surface and lightly press them into the soil. Water the soil gently, being careful not to wash away the seeds.
Yarrow seeds will germinate in 14 to 21 days, depending on the temperature and humidity. Yarrow prefers dry soils, so avoid overwatering. Once the seedlings are about 2 inches tall, thin them to a spacing of 12 to 18 inches apart.
Yarrow is a versatile perennial herb that can add beauty and usefulness to any garden With its fern-like leaves and colorful blooms that attract pollinators, yarrow is an excellent addition to flower beds, borders, and wildflower meadows However, proper timing is crucial when sowing yarrow seeds to ensure success. This guide will outline when and how to plant yarrow seeds for optimal germination and growth.
Understanding Yarrow’s Growing Requirements
Before delving into timing, it’s important to understand yarrow’s ideal growing conditions. Yarrow thrives in full sun and well-drained soil with a pH between 6.0-7.5. Amend heavy clay soils with compost or sand to improve drainage. Yarrow can tolerate drought and heat once established, but consistent moisture is needed in early growth stages.
Yarrow seeds require light to germinate so sow just 1/8 inch deep or simply press into soil. They also benefit from stratification (cold treatment) to break dormancy. Yarrow flowers from early summer to fall and spreads vigorously when happy. Give plants 12-18 inches spacing for good air circulation.
Spring Planting
Spring is an excellent time to sow yarrow seeds directly outdoors once frost danger has passed. This timing mimics natural winter stratification and allows plants to establish before summer heat.
Starting Indoors
For a head start begin yarrow seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before your last expected frost. Use a seed starting mix and grow lights to nurture seedlings until ready to transplant outside after hardening off. Take care not to start too early indoors or leggy weak plants can result.
Direct Sowing Outdoors
When sowing directly outdoors, wait 2-4 weeks past your average last spring frost date. This ensures soil has warmed adequately for germination. Till soil to 6-8 inch depth and rake smooth. Scatter seeds thinly atop the soil, then lightly press in for good contact. Maintain even moisture until sprouting, which takes 10-20 days.
Fall Planting
Fall can also be an optimal planting time for yarrow seeds. The natural winter chill provides needed stratification.
Allow Time to Establish
When direct sowing in fall, aim for 8-10 weeks before your first expected fall frost. This gives plants time to germinate, sprout, and build decent root reserves before going dormant over winter.
Boost Success Rate
To boost success, prepare soil well with compost and sow thickly. Thin in spring once plants resume growth. Mulch newly sprouted plants in late fall to insulate from harsh winter temperatures.
Ongoing Care
Proper care once yarrow is established ensures healthy, vigorous growth.
- Water moderately in first year, taper off as plants mature
- Divide clumps every 2-3 years to rejuvenate
- Cut back flowers after blooming to encourage reblooming
- Prune regularly to control spread
- Avoid rich, fertile soils that cause floppy growth
Optimal Planting Dates by Region
Recommended spring and fall planting dates for yarrow seeds by USDA Hardiness Zone:
Zone 3-4
- Spring: Mid to late May
- Fall: Late August to mid September
Zone 5-6
- Spring: Mid April to early May
- Fall: Early September to early October
Zone 7-8
- Spring: Early March to mid April
- Fall: Late September to late October
Zone 9-10
- Spring: February to early March
- Fall: November to early December
Use these planting timeframes as a guide, adjusting as needed based on local conditions and weather patterns in any given year. With proper timing and care, yarrow can thrive and add beauty to gardens across a wide geographical range.
Yarrow is a rugged, low-maintenance perennial that deserves a spot in any garden. By sowing seeds in spring after frost danger has passed or in early fall, you can take advantage of natural seasonal rhythms for best germination and establishment. Give yarrow full sun, well-drained soil, and moderate water until plants mature. In return, you’ll enjoy years of striking, pollinator-friendly blooms and aromatic foliage. With its adaptability and multi-season interest, yarrow is a wise choice for gardens across diverse climates and gardening zones.
Growing and Caring for Yarrow
Yarrow is a low-maintenance plant that requires minimal care once established. Here are some tips for growing and caring for yarrow:
- Soil: Yarrow prefers well-drained soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.0. It can grow in poor soil, but it will produce fewer flowers. Avoid planting yarrow in humid climates, as it is susceptible to powdery mildew.
- Sun: Yarrow thrives in full sun, although it can tolerate some shade. Make sure to plant it in a location that receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day.
- Watering: Yarrow is drought-tolerant and prefers dry soils. Water only when the soil is dry to the touch, and avoid overhead watering, as it can promote powdery mildew.
- Fertilizer: Yarrow does not require fertilizer, but you can apply a balanced fertilizer once a year in early spring to promote growth and flowering.
- Pruning: Deadhead yarrow regularly to encourage more blooms. Cut back the plant to the basal foliage after the first flush of flowers to promote a second blooming.
- Propagation: Yarrow can be propagated by division or stem cuttings. Divide the plant every 3 to 4 years in early spring or fall. Take stem cuttings in early summer and root them in well-drained soil.
- Pest and diseases: Yarrow is generally resistant to pests and diseases, but it can be affected by powdery mildew in humid climates. To prevent powdery mildew, plant the yarrow in a well-ventilated location and avoid overhead watering. If you notice signs of powdery mildew on your yarrow plants, treat them with a fungicide spray.
If you are transplanting yarrow seedlings from containers to the garden beds, make sure to do it in the early spring or fall. Yarrow has a deep root system, so it is essential to plant it at the same depth as the root ball. Water the soil after transplanting, and make sure to keep it moist until the plant is established.
Yarrow leaves and flowers can be harvested for various medicinal purposes. Yarrow leaves have antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties and can be used to make tea or a salve. Yarrow flowers are used in making tinctures and can be added to baths for relaxation.
To harvest yarrow leaves and flowers, wait until the plant is in full bloom. Cut the stems just above the basal foliage, leaving about 6 inches of stem. You can use the leaves and flowers fresh or dry them for later use.
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How to Plant and Grow Yarrow from Seed
FAQ
Is yarrow hard to grow from seed?
Yarrow, also known as Achillea millefolium, is a hardy perennial plant that is easy to grow from seed. Yarrow is a popular choice for herb gardens, and its leaves and flowers have many medicinal properties.
How long does it take for yarrow seeds to germinate?
Seeds should germinate in around 10-14 days at a soil temperature of 18-22°C. Transplant seedlings to the garden once they have their first true leaves and are large enough to handle (usually 5-10cm tall). Plant out, spacing plants 60cm apart.
What not to plant next to yarrow?
Low-light plants like coral bells and hosta are not a good fit to plant with yarrow. Even plants with similar care needs may not work well, depending on how they are planted. A tall shrub or tree that blocks sunlight and keeps yarrow in the shade will not be a good neighboring plant.
Where is the best place to plant yarrow?
Yarrow grows best in open, sunny areas such as lawns, fields, and meadows. However, it will also grow in the partial shade of open woods, roadsides, and trailsides. It can be found in cities, suburbs, rural areas, and wilderness areas.
How do you grow Yarrow seeds?
Prepare the soil: Yarrow seeds prefer well-draining soil that is slightly alkaline. Before sowing the seeds, make sure to loosen the soil and remove any rocks or debris. Adding compost or organic matter can also help improve the soil quality. Sow the seeds: Scatter the yarrow seeds over the prepared soil and lightly press them into the soil.
When should I plant Yarrow?
Plant in the spring or early summer after the danger of frost has passed. See local frost dates. If you plant yarrow from tip cuttings, plant them in spring or early summer. Plant in an area that receives full sun to encourage compact growth and many flowers. In partial sun or shade, yarrow tends to grow leggy.
How long does it take Yarrow seeds to sprout?
If you keep soil temperature at 70 degreees, germination should occur within 14 to 28 days. At lower soil temperatures, it can take as a long as 100 days for yarrow seeds to sprout. Once you’re successfully growing yarrow in your garden, it’s easiest to take divisions from established plants to start new plants.
How long does Yarrow take to grow?
Yarrow grows like a ground cover over time, so pick a spot where it will have room to spread out. Seeds germinate best if cold stratified for one month prior to planting. Seeds can be started indoors or direct sow outdoors in early spring. Sow seeds 4-6″ apart on soil surface and press lightly to settle. Seeds will sprout in 20-45 days.
How far apart should Yarrow seeds be planted?
Once the yarrow seeds have germinated, you can thin out the seedlings to give them more space to grow. Space the young plants 12-18 inches apart, as yarrow has a spreading habit and needs room to thrive. As the seedlings grow, it’s important to keep the soil evenly moist but not waterlogged.
How often should Yarrow flowers be planted?
Permanent beds and mass plantings. Divide every 3-4 years to maintain vigor. How to plant, grow, and care for perennial yarrow flowers from seed: germination, light/soil needs, spacing, hardiness, and harvesting for drying or bouquets.