How to Grow Blanketflower
Wikimedia Commons
Blanketflower
Gaillardia x grandiflora
flowerBlanketflower is a vibrant perennial known for its bold red and yellow bi-colored blooms that resemble a colorful blanket. These hardy, drought-tolerant plants flower profusely from early summer through fall and attract pollinators with ease. They're ideal for borders, cottage gardens, and xeriscape landscapes.
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Example Blanketflower timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Blanketflower
Around Apr 17Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.
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Tend & protect
Late spring–summerWatering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.
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First Blanketflower blooms
Around Jun 16≈ 60 days after planting
Sample dates for Pittsburgh, PA. Sign up to get exact Blanketflower dates for your own zip code.
Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in zones 2-10; best performance in zones 3-9
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Seed Germination
1-2 weeksSeeds sprouting; tiny seedlings emerging with cotyledons
Keep soil moist but not waterlogged. Provide bright light. Germination occurs in 7-14 days at 70-75°F. No covering needed—seeds need light to germinate.
Seedling to Transplant
3-4 weeksDevelopment of first true leaves; small rosette forming
Thin seedlings or transplant when 2-3 true leaves appear. Gradually acclimate to outdoor light. Keep consistently moist but not soggy.
Vegetative Growth
4-6 weeksPlant establishing roots and foliage; bushy growth with lance-like green leaves
Transplant outdoors after last frost. Water regularly but allow soil to dry between waterings. Pinch back stems in early season to encourage bushier growth. Reduce fertilizer; poor soil is acceptable.
Flowering
8-12 weeks (can extend into fall)Abundant flowers with red and yellow petals arranged in layers; bloom peaks in summer
Deadhead spent flowers regularly to prolong blooming. Provide full sun for optimal color. Reduce watering as flowering intensifies. Staking usually not needed unless in shade.
Seed Set & Dormancy
4-8 weeksFlowers fade; seed heads develop; plant slows growth as temperatures cool
Allow some flowers to set seed for self-seeding or collection. Cut back stems in late fall or early spring to 3-4 inches. Divide plants every 2-3 years to rejuvenate.
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Remove infected plants immediately. Use row covers on seedlings. Spray with insecticidal soap or neem oil if population is high.
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Increase humidity by misting foliage. Spray with water to dislodge mites. Use miticide if severe.
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Ensure good air circulation. Remove affected leaves. Apply sulfur or fungicide in early morning. Reduce overhead watering.
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and
Remove by hand in evening. Apply copper tape around plants. Use beer traps or diatomaceous earth.
Uses
Edible Flower Garnish
CulinaryBlanketflower petals are edible with a slightly spicy, peppery flavor. Use fresh petals as a colorful garnish on salads, desserts, or beverages. [source]
Fresh and Dried Arrangements
CraftThe vibrant blooms are excellent for fresh cut flower bouquets and dry beautifully for long-lasting dried arrangements and wreaths. [source]
Pollinator Attraction
WildlifeBlanketflowers are magnets for bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects, making them essential for pollinator gardens and habitat restoration. [source]
Traditional Herbal Use
MedicinalNative American tribes historically used Gaillardia species to treat digestive issues and skin conditions. Modern herbalism incorporates it in teas and infusions for its antioxidant properties. [source]
Low-Maintenance Landscape
HouseholdIts extreme drought tolerance and minimal care requirements make it ideal for water-wise gardens, xeriscaping, and sustainable landscaping projects. [source]
This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.
Harvest Tips
Cut flowers in early morning when buds are just opening for longest vase life (7-10 days). Deadhead regularly to encourage continuous blooming. Allow some flowers to remain on the plant for seed collection in late summer/fall. Seeds can be harvested when seed heads turn brown and dry.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Blanketflower earned its common name from the resemblance of its layered red and yellow petals to a Native American blanket or woven pattern.
- 🌱 Gaillardia is named after Gaillard de Marentonneau, an 18th-century French botanist and patron of horticulture.
- 🌱 The flowers get MORE colorful and more abundant in poor, sandy soil—over-fertilizing actually reduces blooms and vigor.
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
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