How to Grow Coreopsis and Rudbeckia (Tickseed and Black-eyed Susan)
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Coreopsis and Rudbeckia (Tickseed and Black-eyed Susan)
Coreopsis spp. and Rudbeckia spp.
flowerCoreopsis (tickseed) and Rudbeckia (black-eyed Susan) are hardy perennial wildflowers known for their vibrant yellow, orange, and red daisy-like blooms and exceptional drought tolerance. These vigorous, low-maintenance plants flower prolifically from late spring through fall and attract pollinators while requiring minimal fertilizer or pest management. They are among the most reliable and rewarding perennials for sunny gardens across North America.
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Example Coreopsis and Rudbeckia (Tickseed and Black-eyed Susan) timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Coreopsis and Rudbeckia (Tickseed and Black-eyed Susan)
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 Coreopsis and Rudbeckia (Tickseed and Black-eyed Susan) blooms
Mid-to-late summerBefore the first fall frost (≈ Nov 8)
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Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Both thrive in zones 3-9; most species are reliably hardy to zone 3 and tolerate zone 10 in cooler microclimates
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Get my Coreopsis and Rudbeckia (Tickseed and Black-eyed Susan) timeline →Growth Stages
Seedling
10-14 daysTiny cotyledons emerge; first true leaves appear delicate and narrow. Very small plants vulnerable to damping off.
Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Provide bright light (grow lights 3-4 inches above seedlings). Thin overcrowded seedlings to prevent fungal issues. No fertilizer needed yet.
Establishment
3-4 weeks indoors or 2-3 weeks in groundSeedlings develop 4-6 true leaves and establish taproot systems. Plants grow rapidly once transplanted to individual pots or garden soil.
Harden off transplants gradually over 7-10 days before planting outdoors. Water regularly during this phase. Begin in pots indoors 6-8 weeks before last frost, or direct sow after frost danger passes.
Vegetative Growth
6-12 weeks (until buds form)Plants build sturdy stems and foliage; basal rosettes expand. First-year seedlings may not flower or produce sparse blooms; expect full flowering in year 2.
Water weekly during dry spells until roots are well-established (4-6 weeks). No fertilizer needed; rich soil causes weak, floppy growth. Thin or transplant to final spacing. Pinch stem tips in early summer (before flower buds form) to encourage bushier, more compact growth.
Flowering & Blooming
8-12 weeks (June-September in most zones)Abundant daisy-like flower heads open on upright stems. Coreopsis flowers are predominantly yellow or orange; Rudbeckia typically golden-yellow or orange with dark brown/black central disks. Continuous blooming through summer and fall.
Deadhead spent flowers weekly to extend bloom and redirect energy into more flowers (rather than seed production). Water only during drought. No fertilizer; feeding reduces flowering and vigor. Stake tall varieties (3+ feet) if needed in windy sites.
Seed Production & Senescence
6-8 weeks until hard frostIf left undeadheaded, flowers fade and develop seed heads with distinctive brown, dome-shaped or spherical centers. Foliage eventually yellows and dies back with frost.
Allow some flower heads to mature seed for self-seeding in garden or collection. Cut back dead stems in fall or early spring (timing varies by zone; in zone 3-5, cut back in late fall after frost kills foliage; in zones 8-9, cut back in early spring). Do not deadhead if you want the plant to self-seed.
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Rare in established gardens; increase humidity by misting if severe. Spray with neem oil or insecticidal soap. Often self-limiting in cool weather.
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Ensure good air circulation by spacing properly. Remove infected foliage. Spray with sulfur or potassium bicarbonate fungicide if severe. Avoid overhead watering. Not usually life-threatening.
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Handpick at dusk. Create barriers with diatomaceous earth or copper tape. Beer traps. Generally minimal impact as these plants are not slug favorites.
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Handpick in early morning. Apply neem oil or spinosad. Usually minor cosmetic damage. Rudbeckia is less preferred than many garden plants.
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Remove and destroy infected plants showing yellowing, stunting, or distorted flowers. Manage leafhopper vectors with row covers in spring or spinosad spray. Resistant cultivars available.
Uses
Edible Petals
CulinaryCoreopsis and Rudbeckia petals are edible and add vibrant color and mild, slightly spicy flavor to salads and garnishes. [source]
Traditional Herbal Remedy
MedicinalRudbeckia (particularly Rudbeckia angustifolia and other native species) has been used in traditional Native American and folk medicine to support immune function and wound healing. [source]
Pollinator and Bird Support
WildlifeBoth plants are essential native wildflower resources for bees, butterflies, and other pollinators. Seed heads provide food for goldfinches and other finches throughout fall and winter. [source]
Long-lasting Cut and Dried Flowers
HouseholdCoreopsis and Rudbeckia are among the longest-lasting perennials for fresh arrangements and dry beautifully for dried flower crafts, wreaths, and decorations. [source]
Natural Dye Plant
CraftRudbeckia petals and stems can be used to create golden and rust-toned dyes for fabric and paper crafting. [source]
This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.
Harvest Tips
For cut flowers: Cut stems in early morning when blooms are just fully open. Strip lower leaves. Coreopsis and Rudbeckia are excellent cut flowers, lasting 7-10 days in a vase with fresh water changes. For seed collection: Allow flower heads to dry on plant until completely brown and dry (late September-October). Cut entire seed head, place in paper bag, dry indoors for 1-2 weeks, then shake to release seeds. Store in cool, dry place. Seeds remain viable 2-3 years.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Coreopsis earned the common name 'tickseed' because its seeds resemble ticks. The name comes from the Greek words 'kore' (pupil of the eye) and 'opsis' (appearance), referring to the dark central disk resembling the eye's pupil.
- 🌱 Rudbeckia is native to North America and was named by Linnaeus in honor of Olof Rudbeck, an 18th-century Swedish botanist and physician. Black-eyed Susan is now naturalized across Europe and Asia and is the state flower of Maryland.
- 🌱 Both plants are nearly herbicide-proof and thrive in poor, compacted soils where many ornamentals fail, making them ideal for erosion control, difficult slopes, and pollinator meadows. A single Coreopsis plant can produce thousands of seeds.
Gardening Terms
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