Indian Summer Rudbeckia
A 1995 AAS winner which is compact, multi-branching, and a prolific producer of huge, colorful blooms. These are the largest, most astonishing Black-eyed Susans you'll ever see. Grow them as an annual, starting them indoors in April, transplanting when the soil is warm, and there will be 26"-30" plants with 5"-8" flowers from mid-August through the first few frosts. Golden yellow blossoms with chocolate-brown centers make for excellent cut flowers (with a long vase life) and are a beautiful sight in a garden.
50 seedsĀ
Ā
PLANTING
Rudbeckia hirta
Perennial, Zones 5-9
Germination:Ā 7-12 days
Germination Temperature:Ā Optimum soil temperatures 70-75ĀŗF
Seed Planting Depth:Ā Sow on the surface and press into soil, seeds need light to germinate.
Starting Indoors:Ā Start indoors 6-8 weeks before the last frost. Provide 70-75ĀŗF soil temperature. Transplant after the last frost, 12-18" apart.Ā
Sowing Outdoors:Ā Direct sow 1-2 weeks before the last frost date,Ā sow 3-5 seeds every 12-18"apart.
Growth Habit:Ā Upright
Height and Width:Ā Ā 26-30" by 12-18"
Spacing:Ā 12-18" apart
Light Needs:Ā Ā Full sun
Soil Needs:Ā Loose, rich, well-drained
Approximate days to flower from seed:Ā Blooms in the second year may bloom the first season when started early indoors.Ā
Uses:Ā Ā Flower beds, containers, cut flowers,Ā attracts pollinators
Care:Ā Water seedlings regularly until establishedĀ and water well during dry spells.Ā Amend soil with compost before transplanting.Ā Harvest flowers often for bouquets or deadhead for continuous blooms.Ā
Ā