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Coreopsis

Coreopsis, commonly known as tickseed, is a genus of flowering plants that includes over 100 species and countless hybrids. These plants are native to North, Central, and South America and are highly regarded for their vibrant, daisy-like flowers and ease of care.

Coreopsis varieties range from annuals, which complete their lifecycle in one year, to perennials, which can grace a garden for several years. They thrive in well-draining, sandy or loamy soil, prefer full sun exposure, and are known for their drought resistance once established.

The flowers of coreopsis plants come in a spectrum of colors, including yellow, pink, red, and white, and they typically bloom from summer to fall. Gardeners appreciate coreopsis for its long blooming period and minimal maintenance requirements, making it a popular choice for borders, beds, and as a cheerful addition to pollinator gardens.

Coreopsis is a popular genus of annual and perennial flowering plants known for their vibrant daisy-like blooms and ease of care. These adaptable plants offer a long-lasting display of color from early summer to frost, making them a versatile addition to any garden.

Key Features:

  • Showy Flowers: Bright, daisy-like blooms in various shades of yellow, gold, orange, and pink.
  • Extended Bloom: Flowers continuously from early summer to frost.
  • Adaptability: Thrives in a wide range of soil conditions and tolerates drought and heat.
  • Low Maintenance: Easy to grow and requires minimal care.
  • Attracts Wildlife: Invites butterflies and hummingbirds to your garden.

Planting and Care:

  • Planting: Set plants 6-12 inches apart in full sun or light shade. Prefers well-drained, sandy or rocky soils.
  • Watering: Requires little watering once established.
  • Fertilizing: Minimal fertilization is needed, especially after establishment.
  • Maintenance: Remove spent flowers regularly to prolong blooming. Divide every 2-3 years for stronger growth.

Common Problems:

  • Pests: Aphids, leafhoppers, slugs, spider mites, thrips, and whiteflies may occasionally infest Coreopsis.
  • Diseases: Powdery mildew can occur in humid conditions. Proper spacing helps prevent this.

Uses:

  • Borders: Creates a stunning visual impact in garden borders.
  • Containers: Adds color and texture to pots and planters.
  • Cut Flowers: Long-lasting blooms make excellent bouquets.
  • Mass Plantings: Creates a dramatic effect when planted in large groups.

Coreopsis is a reliable and rewarding choice for gardeners of all levels. Its vibrant colors, low maintenance, and adaptability make it a popular addition to many landscapes.

Coreopsis FAQ

Common Names: Eared Coreopsis, Ear-leaved Tickseed, Lobed Coreopsis, Lobed Tickseed, Mouse-eared Coreopsis

Previously known as: Coreopsis auriculata var. diversifoliaCoreopsis diversifoliaCymbaecarpa auriculata

Phonetic Spelling  kor-ee-OP-sis aw-rik-yoo-LAY-tuh

Description

Mouse-eared Tickseed is a low-maintenance, native perennial that thrives in borders, beds, and naturalized areas. Its attractive blooms persist throughout the growing season, adding a touch of beauty to your garden. While tolerant of humidity and some dry conditions, it may not withstand severe drought as well as other Coreopsis species.

Key Features:

  • Native Perennial: Well-suited for naturalized gardens.
  • Low Maintenance: Requires minimal care.
  • Attractive Blooms: Long-lasting flowers add color to your landscape.
  • Deer Resistant: Safe for deer-prone areas.
  • Beneficial for Wildlife: Provides nectar for pollinators and seeds for songbirds.

Planting and Care:

  • Deadheading: Remove spent flower stalks to encourage continuous blooming.
  • Shearing: Trim plants in mid-summer for a fall rebloom and to maintain a tidy appearance.
  • Dividing: Divide clumps in spring to propagate or control the spread.

Common Problems:

  • Crown Rot: Avoid moist, poorly drained soils to prevent crown rot.
  • Sprawling Growth: May become unruly in moist or fertile conditions.
  • Foliage Burn: Can suffer from foliage burn in hot, dry summers.

Note: Some cultivars exhibit resistance to pythium root rot.

Mouse-eared Tickseed is a versatile and resilient perennial that adds beauty and low-maintenance charm to your garden.

Additional Information:

  • Growth: Grows 1-2 feet tall and spreads 6-9 inches.
  • Leaves: Ear-shaped, hairy leaves.
  • Flowers: Daisy-like flowers with yellow petals and a yellow center.
  • Bloom Time: Blooms primarily from April to June.
  • Uses: Ideal for meadows, naturalized areas, walkways, butterfly gardens, cottage gardens, native gardens, pollinator gardens, rock gardens, accents, borders, mass plantings, and small groups.

Mouse-eared Tickseed is a valuable addition to any garden, offering beauty, low maintenance, and benefits for wildlife.

Common Names: Lanceleaf Coreopsis, Lance-Leaved Coreopsis, Longstalk Coreopsis, Sand Coreopsis, Tickseed

Phonetic Spelling   kor-ee-OP-sis lan-see-oh-LAY-tah

Lanceleaf Coreopsis is a vibrant native wildflower that adds a burst of color to prairies, glades, fields, and roadsides. Its cheerful yellow blooms attract pollinators and provide food for birds, making it a valuable addition to any garden.

Key Features:

  • Native Wildflower: Thrives in naturalized settings.
  • Attracts Wildlife: Invites butterflies, bees, and songbirds.
  • Low Maintenance: Requires minimal care.
  • Drought and Heat Tolerant: Resilient to challenging conditions.

Planting and Care:

  • Soil: Prefers full sun and well-drained soil. Can be aggressive in fertile conditions.
  • Maintenance: Deadhead spent flowers to control self-seeding and promote continuous blooming. Divide every 2-3 years to maintain vigor.
  • Pruning: Cut back plants if they become overly sprawling.

Uses:

  • Naturalized Areas: Adds beauty to meadows and prairies.
  • Pollinator Gardens: Supports beneficial insects.
  • Borders and Mass Plantings: Creates a striking visual display.

Additional Information:

  • Growth: Grows 2 feet tall and spreads easily.
  • Flowers: Yellow blooms with a daisy-like appearance.
  • Leaves: Lance-shaped leaves.
  • Resistance: Resistant to deer, drought, heat, and humidity.
  • Problems: Crown rot may occur in poorly drained soils.

Lanceleaf Coreopsis is a versatile and low-maintenance wildflower that brings joy and beauty to your garden.

Common Names: Broadleaf Coreopsis, Broadleaf Tickseed, Coreopsis

Phonetic Spelling   kor-ee-OP-sis lat-ih-FOE-lee-ah

Broadleaf Coreopsis is a native perennial wildflower that thrives in moist, rich woodland areas of the southern Appalachians. Its vibrant yellow flowers add a touch of color to shaded landscapes, attracting bees and providing food for birds.

Key Features:

  • Native Perennial: Well-suited for naturalized woodland settings.
  • Attracts Wildlife: Invites bees and songbirds to your garden.
  • Low Maintenance: Requires minimal care.
  • Shade Tolerance: Thrives in dappled sunlight or deep shade.

Planting and Care:

  • Soil: Prefers moist, well-drained soil with high organic matter.
  • Spacing: Plant 12 inches apart.
  • Maintenance: Minimal care required.

Uses:

  • Woodland Gardens: Adds color and interest to shaded areas.
  • Naturalized Areas: Creates a naturalized look.
  • Pollinator Gardens: Supports beneficial insects.

Additional Information:

  • Growth: Grows 2-4 feet tall and 3-5 feet wide.
  • Leaves: Oval leaves up to 8 inches long.
  • Flowers: Yellow flower heads with 5 ray petals.
  • Bloom Time: Blooms from July to September.
  • Spread: Spreads by rhizomes.

Broadleaf Coreopsis is a beautiful and low-maintenance addition to woodland gardens, providing a burst of color and supporting wildlife.

Common Name(s): Threadleaf Coreopsis, Thread-leaf Tickseed, Tickseed, Whorled Coreopsis

Phonetic Spelling     kor-ee-OP-sis ver-tik-il-LAY-tah

Common Names: Threadleaf Coreopsis, Thread-leaf Tickseed, Tickseed, Whorled Coreopsis Phonetic Spelling: kor-ee-OP-sis ver-tik-il-LAY-tah

Description: Threadleaf Coreopsis is a native perennial in the daisy family that forms dense, bushy clumps. It typically grows 2-3 feet tall with a similar spread. This adaptable plant thrives in infertile sandy and rocky soils and tolerates drought, low levels of salt, poor soil conditions, heat, and humidity. While it prefers well-drained soil, it can withstand occasional dryness.

Attributes:

  • Genus: Coreopsis
  • Species: verticillata
  • Family: Asteraceae
  • Life Cycle: Perennial
  • Recommended Propagation: Division, root cuttings, seed
  • Origin: North America, Southeastern US
  • Fire Risk: Medium flammability
  • Wildlife Value: Attracts butterflies, bees, and other pollinators; seeds are eaten by songbirds.
  • Dimensions: Height: 2 ft. 6 in. - 3 ft. 0 in.; Width: 1 ft. 5 in. - 2 ft. 0 in.

Whole Plant Traits:

  • Plant Type: Herbaceous perennial, native plant, wildflower
  • Habit: Clumping, dense, erect, mounding, multi-stemmed, spreading
  • Growth Rate: Rapid
  • Maintenance: Low
  • Texture: Fine

Cultural Conditions:

  • Light: Full sun (6 or more hours)
  • Soil: Clay, sand, shallow rocky, acid to neutral, well-drained
  • Space: 12 inches-3 feet

USDA Hardiness Zones: 3a-9b

Fruit:

  • Color: Brown/copper
  • Display Time: Summer
  • Type: Achene
  • Size: < 1 inch
  • Description: Dark colored achene seed form after blooming. Displays from July to October.

Flowers:

  • Color: Gold/yellow
  • Inflorescence: Cyme
  • Value: Good cut, long bloom season, long-lasting, showy
  • Bloom Time: Spring, summer
  • Shape: Radial
  • Petals: 7-20 petals/rays
  • Size: 1-3 inches
  • Description: 1-2 inch daisy-like flowers with 8 petals around a yellow center disk in loose clusters. They bloom from May to July. Unlike some coreopsis, the petals are not notched.

Leaves:

  • Type: Compound (Pinnately, Bipinnately, Palmately)
  • Arrangement: Opposite
  • Shape: Palmatifid
  • Margin: Entire
  • Hairs: No
  • Size: 1-3 inches
  • Description: Stemless, thread-like, dark-green leaves divided into 3 segments in a whorled pattern around the stems.

Stem:

  • Color: Green
  • Aromatic: No
  • Description: Thin green stems

Landscape:

  • Location: Coastal, naturalized area, patio
  • Themes: Butterfly garden, children's garden, cottage garden, cutting garden, drought-tolerant garden, native garden, pollinator garden, rock garden
  • Design: Mass planting, small groups  

Attracts: Bees, butterflies, pollinators, songbirds

Resistance: Deer, drought, dry soil, heat, humidity, poor soil, rabbits, salt

Additional Notes:

  • Consider shearing the plant after blooming to encourage fall flowers.
  • Threadleaf Coreopsis can spread by rhizomes and self-seed.
  • Avoid over-fertilizing as it can lead to weak stems.
  • This plant is a great choice for low-maintenance gardens and naturalized areas.

Coreopsis, also known as tickseed, is a genus of flowering plants in the daisy family Asteraceae. They are native to North and South America, and there are over one hundred species available, with countless hybrids. They are admired for their vibrant, daisy-like flowers and ease of care.

Here are some interesting facts about coreopsis:

  • They come in a variety of colors, including yellow, orange, red, pink, and white.
  • They bloom from early summer to fall.
  • They are drought tolerant and deer resistant.
  • They are easy to grow and care for, making them a great choice for beginner gardeners.
  • They attract pollinators, such as bees and butterflies.
  • Here are some tips for growing coreopsis:
  • Plant them in full sun or partial shade.
  • They prefer well-drained soil but can tolerate poor soil conditions.
  • Water them regularly until they are established, then water them deeply during dry periods.
  • Deadhead spent flowers to encourage more blooms.
  • Divide perennial coreopsis every three to four years.
  • Coreopsis can be used in a variety of ways in the garden:
  • They can be planted in beds and borders.
  • They can be used as edging plants.
  • They can be grown in containers.
  • They can be cut for fresh flowers.

Transplanting coreopsis from containers is a simple process that can be done anytime between spring and early fall, as long as there's no threat of frost. Here is a step-by-step guide:

  • Choose the right time: Ideally, transplant your coreopsis when the soil is moist but not soggy. Avoid transplanting on hot, dry days or during windy weather.
  • Prepare the planting site: Choose a location in your garden that receives at least 6 hours of sunlight per day. Coreopsis thrives in well-draining soil, so amend your soil with compost or other organic matter if it is heavy clay. Dig a hole that is twice the size of the root ball of your coreopsis plant.
  • Gently remove the coreopsis from the container: Water the plant thoroughly a few hours before transplanting. Tip the container on its side and gently tap the bottom to loosen the root ball. Slide the plant out of the container, taking care not to damage the roots.
  • Plant the coreopsis in the prepared hole: Place the coreopsis in the hole at the same depth it was in the container. Backfill the hole with soil and gently tamp it down to remove air pockets. Water the plant deeply to settle the soil around the roots.
  • Water regularly and provide proper care: Keep the soil moist for the first few weeks after transplanting. Once established, coreopsis is drought-tolerant and only needs occasional watering during dry periods. Deadhead spent flowers to encourage more blooms throughout the season.

Additional tips:

  • If your coreopsis is rootbound, you may need to gently loosen the roots before planting.
  • When transplanting multiple coreopsis plants, space them according to their mature size. Most varieties require 12 to 18 inches of spacing.
  • Mulch around your coreopsis plants with a layer of organic material to help retain moisture and suppress weeds.

With proper care, your transplanted coreopsis should thrive in its new home and provide you with beautiful blooms for many seasons to come!

There are over one hundred species and countless hybrids of coreopsis, each with its own unique charm and characteristics. Here is a glimpse into some of the most popular varieties, classified by their:

Species:

  • Large-flowered tickseed (Coreopsis grandiflora): Produces large, showy blooms in golden yellow, often with burgundy centers. Grows up to 2-3 feet tall and is ideal for borders and cut flowers.
  • Lanceleaf coreopsis (Coreopsis lanceolata): Features finely cut foliage and bright yellow flowers with reddish centers. Reaches about 1-2 feet tall and thrives in dry conditions.
  • Threadleaf coreopsis (Coreopsis verticillata): Boasts airy foliage and numerous small yellow flowers. Shorter than other species, growing only 1-2 feet, perfect for edging and containers.
  • Pink tickseed (Coreopsis rosea): The only species with naturally pink flowers, adding a delicate touch to gardens. Prefers cooler climates and grows roughly 1-2 feet tall.

Flower Color:

  • Reds and Pinks: 'Red Velvet', 'Rosea Nana', 'Sweet Dreams'
  • Oranges and Bronzes: 'Moonbeam', 'Golden Sphere', 'Mango Punch'
  • Bicolor: 'Mardi Gras' (yellow with red base), 'Mercury Rising' (red and yellow stripes), 'Sienna Sunset' (yellow with burgundy border)

Bloom Form:

  • Double blooms: 'Sunburst', 'Double Corona', 'Full Moon'
  • Daisy-like flowers: 'Early Sunrise', 'Limerock', 'Tetra Gold'
  • Threadleaf forms: 'Moonbeam', 'Golden Fleece', 'Route 66'

Growth Habit:

  • Tall: 'Sunflare', 'Zagreb', 'Big Red' (up to three feet)
  • Short: 'Citrine', 'Garnet', 'Early Sunrise' (around one foot)
  • Spreading: 'Moonbeam', 'Jive', 'Sweet Dreams'

This is just a small sampling of the vast diversity of coreopsis. It is always best to choose varieties based on your specific needs and preferences, such as climate, desired bloom color, and garden space.

Taking care of coreopsis in your garden is a straightforward process, even for beginner gardeners. Here are some key things to keep in mind:

Sun and Soil:

  • Location: Coreopsis thrives in full sun (at least 6 hours a day) for optimal blooming. They can tolerate some light shade but may have reduced blooms.
  • Soil: Well-draining soil is crucial. They prefer slightly acidic to neutral soil (pH 6.0-7.0) but can adapt to a wider range. Amend heavy clay soil with compost or other organic matter for better drainage.

Watering and Feeding:

  • Watering: Young plants need regular watering until established. Once established, they are quite drought tolerant. Water deeply during hot, dry periods to encourage healthy roots. Avoid overwatering, as they do not like soggy soil.
  • Feeding: In general, coreopsis is not heavy feeders. A light application of balanced fertilizer in spring, or a slow-release fertilizer, is enough. Too much fertilizer can actually hinder blooming.

Maintenance:

  • Deadheading: Regularly removing spent flowers (deadheading) throughout the season encourages continuous blooming. Simply pinch off the flowers just below the faded bloom.
  • Dividing: Perennial coreopsis benefit from dividing every 3-4 years to prevent overcrowding and maintain vibrant blooms. This is best done in spring or fall.
  • Cutting back: If your coreopsis becomes leggy or flops over, you can cut them back by one-third in late summer. This will promote bushier growth and a second flush of blooms.

Pest and Disease Control:

Coreopsis are generally pest- and disease-resistant. However, watch out for occasional problems like powdery mildew (fungal) and aphids (insects). These can be managed organically with neem oil or insecticidal soap sprays.

Additional Tips:

  • Mulch around your coreopsis with organic material like wood chips or bark to retain moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature.
  • Taller varieties may need staking for support when in bloom.
  • Deadheading attracts pollinators like bees and butterflies to your garden.
  • Some species self-seed readily, creating new plants in unexpected places. You can either leave them or pull up unwanted seedlings.

By following these basic care tips, you can enjoy a lush and colorful display of coreopsis in your garden throughout the summer season. They are low-maintenance, versatile, and reward you with cheerful blooms, making them a perfect choice for gardeners of all levels.

Coreopsis plants are magnet for pollinators, especially bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds. They offer these winged visitors several irresistible attractions:

  • Abundant Nectar: Coreopsis flowers produce copious amounts of sweet nectar, a vital energy source for pollinators. The nectar is easily accessible thanks to the open, daisy-like flower heads.
  • Pollen Richness: Coreopsis also produces plenty of pollen, the protein-rich food essential for raising young. The pollen is readily available on the flower's stamen, making it easy for pollinators to collect.
  • Vibrant Colors: Many coreopsis varieties boast bright yellow, orange, pink, and red blooms. These bold colors are highly visible to pollinators, serving as beacons that advertise the availability of food and attracting them from afar.
  • Long Blooming Season: Most coreopsis varieties bloom profusely from early summer to fall, providing a reliable source of food for pollinators throughout a significant portion of their active season.
  • Diverse Species and Hybrids: With over one hundred species and countless hybrids, there is a coreopsis variety suitable for just about any garden, attracting a wide range of pollinators with varying preferences.

Here are some specific pollinators you can expect to see flitting around your coreopsis patch:

  • Bees: Honeybees, bumblebees, and solitary bees are all drawn to the abundant nectar and pollen of coreopsis.
  • Butterflies: Monarchs, swallowtails, and fritillaries find the nectar and pollen of coreopsis irresistible, especially varieties with large, flat flower heads.
  • Hummingbirds: These aerial jewels are attracted to the bright colors and easily accessible nectar of coreopsis, making them a delightful sight in any garden.

By planting coreopsis, you are not just adding beauty to your garden, you are also contributing to the health of the local ecosystem by supporting vital pollinators. So, go ahead and let these cheerful bloomers attract a buzz of life to your garden!

While generally considered low-maintenance and resistant to major issues, coreopsis can occasionally be affected by certain pests and diseases. Here is a rundown of some common encounters:

Pests:

  • Aphids: These small, sap-sucking insects can congregate on coreopsis leaves and buds, causing discolored foliage and stunted growth. They can be controlled with gentle sprays of water, insecticidal soap, or neem oil.
  • Leaf beetles: Adults and larvae of these brightly colored beetles can chew on leaves, creating unsightly holes. Handpicking or spraying with organic insecticides like pyrethrum can be effective.
  • Slugs and snails: These slimy mollusks can damage leaves and flowers, especially in moist conditions. Use diatomaceous earth, beer traps, or handpicking to manage their populations.

Diseases:

  • Powdery mildew: This fungal disease appears as a white powdery coating on leaves and stems, hindering photosynthesis and growth. Proper air circulation and fungicides like neem oil or potassium bicarbonate can help control it.
  • Downy mildew: Less common than powdery mildew, this fungal disease manifests as yellowing and distortion of leaves, with a fuzzy white or gray growth on the underside. Improve air circulation and remove infected plant parts to manage it.
  • Aster yellows: This viral disease, transmitted by leafhoppers, causes stunted growth, distorted leaves, and yellowing foliage. Unfortunately, there is no cure; infected plants need to be removed and destroyed.

Remember:

  • Early detection and intervention are key for managing pests and diseases effectively. Regularly inspect your coreopsis plants for signs of trouble.
  • Use organic control methods whenever possible to minimize harm to beneficial insects and the environment.
  • Healthy and well-maintained coreopsis are naturally more resistant to pest and disease problems. Ensure proper watering, sunlight, and air circulation in your garden.

By being proactive and following these tips, you can keep your coreopsis plants healthy and thriving, enjoying their cheerful blooms throughout the season.

Coreopsis makes a charming and versatile addition to floral arrangements, adding a delightful touch of sunshine and texture. Here is why:

Beauty:

  • Vibrant Colors: Coreopsis boasts a range of cheerful colors, from classic yellow and orange to soft pink and burgundy. These bright hues instantly add sunshine and cheer to any arrangement.
  • Daisy-like Blooms: The classic daisy-like shape of coreopsis flowers adds a playful and charming element to bouquets. They blend well with both formal and informal arrangements.
  • Variety of Sizes: Different coreopsis varieties come in various heights and bloom sizes. You can choose tall varieties for dramatic accents, medium-sized ones for structure, or smaller ones for filling in gaps.

Versatility:

  • Long-lasting: Coreopsis flowers are surprisingly long-lasting in cut flower arrangements, staying fresh for up to a week with proper care.
  • Easy to Combine: Coreopsis readily blends with various flowers and foliage. They complement classic choices like roses and lilies, but also pop against bolder blooms like dahlias and zinnias.
  • Textural Contrast: The airy foliage of some coreopsis varieties adds a delicate contrast to heavier blooms or lush greenery, creating a dynamic and interesting arrangement.

Caring for Coreopsis in Arrangements:

  • Cutting: Cut coreopsis stems at an angle just below a flower bud, ideally in the morning when the blooms are fully open.
  • Conditioning: Place the cut stems in a clean vase filled with cool water, adding flower food for enhanced longevity.
  • Placement: Keep your arrangements away from direct sunlight and drafts to prolong their life.
  • Refreshing: Regularly change the water and recut the stems at an angle to ensure optimal hydration.

Inspiration:

  • Summery Bouquets: Pair coreopsis with daisies, sunflowers, and lavender for a vibrant and cheerful summery arrangement.
  • Rustic Charm: Combine coreopsis with wildflowers like yarrow, coneflower, and Queen Anne's lace for a rustic and natural feel.
  • Fall Flair: Choose burgundy and pink coreopsis varieties to create stunning autumnal arrangements with chrysanthemums, marigolds, and berries.

So, do not hesitate to experiment and incorporate these sunny blooms into your floral creations. Coreopsis will add a touch of sunshine, charm, and versatility to any arrangement, making it a delightful addition to your floral repertoire.

The answer to whether coreopsis is invasive depends on the specific variety and the location where It is planted.

In general, most native coreopsis species are not invasive and are actually beneficial for supporting local pollinators and ecosystems. Some popular native varieties like lanceleaf coreopsis (Coreopsis lanceolata) and tickseed (Coreopsis grandiflora) are considered valuable additions to native plant gardens.

However, some non-native or highly cultivated varieties of coreopsis can be invasive in certain regions.

Here are some key points to consider:

  • Species and cultivars: Coreopsis lanceolata and Coreopsis grandiflora, as mentioned earlier, are native to North America and not invasive. However, cultivars of these species like 'Moonbeam' and 'Golden Sphere' can be more aggressive and potentially invasive in some areas.
  • Region and climate: Some coreopsis varieties might be invasive in specific regions due to favorable climate and lack of natural predators. For example, Coreopsis leavenworthiana has been listed as invasive in some parts of the eastern United States.
  • Habitat type: Coreopsis can become invasive in disturbed areas like roadsides, wastelands, and open woodlands. In their natural habitat, they are usually kept in check by competition from other native plants and natural predators.

To ensure you are not planting an invasive variety:

  • Check with your local gardening resources or native plant societies. They can advise you on which coreopsis varieties are safe to plant in your area.
  • Choose native cultivars or species. Native coreopsis tend to be better adapted to your local climate and less likely to become invasive.

Monitor your plants carefully. Observe how aggressively they spread and take action if they seem to be overtaking other native plants.

By being informed about the invasive potential of certain coreopsis varieties and choosing your plants wisely, you can enjoy their beauty and support local ecosystems without contributing to invasive plant problems.

The best time to divide coreopsis plants depends on your climate and the specific variety you have. Here is a breakdown:

General rule:

  • Spring (Late April to Early May): This is the ideal time for most temperate climates. The soil is warming up, but not too hot, and new growth is starting, allowing the divisions to establish themselves before the summer heat.
  • Fall (Early September to October): This can be a good option in warmer climates or for varieties that struggle with hot summers. Cooler temperatures and moist soil favor good establishment before winter dormancy.

Some exceptions:

  • Varieties that bloom continuously: Dividing these in late summer (August) can encourage a second flush of blooms.
  • Evergreen varieties: These can be divided anytime from spring to fall, as long as the soil isn't frozen.

Considerations when choosing the timing:

  • Blooming period: Avoid dividing while your coreopsis is in full bloom. Aim for before buds form or after flowering has finished.
  • Weather: Choose a time with mild temperatures and no frost risk. Avoid dividing during periods of extreme heat or drought.
  • Moisture: Ensure the soil is moist but not soggy when dividing.

Additional tips for successful division:

  • Divide plants every 3-4 years to prevent overcrowding and maintain vigorous growth.
  • Dig up the entire clump and gently tease apart the roots with your hands.
  • Each division should have 3-4 healthy shoots and roots.
  • Replant the divisions immediately in well-drained soil, water them thoroughly, and keep them watered regularly until established.

Remember, It is best to check with your local gardening resources or nursery for specific recommendations on the best time to divide coreopsis in your area, considering your climate and the specific variety you grow.

By following these tips and choosing the right timing, you can successfully divide your coreopsis plants and enjoy their vibrant blooms for many seasons to come!