How to Germinate Gaillardia Pulchella Seeds

Gaillardia pulchella is an annual flowering plant.

Parched regions in the United States, where water is at a premium, find gardeners searching for water-thrifty plants. Gaillardia pulchella is just that. Also known as the Indian blanket flower, the yellow- to deep-burgundy colored Gaillardia pulchella bloom from the middle of summer to the middle of fall with little care. This annual plant grows 12 to 18 inches tall within U.S. Department of Agriculture Plant Hardiness Zones 3 through 10. Plant the Gaillardia pulchella seeds in the spring, after the soil has warmed to at least 70 degrees Fahrenheit.

Things You'll Need

• Coarse sand
• Gardening fork or spade

Instructions

1. Choose the sunniest spot in the garden in which to plant the Gaillardia pulchella seeds.

2. Amend non-sandy soils by adding a 4-inch layer of sand to the bed and using a gardening fork or spade to mix it into the top 8 inches of soil. Use the rake to level the bed and smooth it of any peaks or valleys.

3. Place the seeds on the surface of the soil and cover them with 1/8 inch of sand. Space the Gaillardia pulchella seeds 12 to 18 inches apart.

4. Water the planting area carefully to a depth of 3 inches. Keep the soil moist as the Gaillardia pulchella seeds germinate. This will generally occur within three weeks.

References

• Texas A&M University: Indian Blanket/Fire Wheel
• Plant-biology.com: Guide to Growing Blanket Flower