purple coneflower

This hardy plant species prefers well-draining soil and likes sunlight. It should be watered regularly but not too often; water until the soil is moist, but not saturated. During the growing season this plant should be watered once a week, using between 1 to 3 inches of water each time. During the winter months when the plant is dormant, water only when the soil is dry. The amount of water will vary depending on the weather conditions and other factors. Monitor the soil for any signs of dryness and water accordingly.

Purple coneflower (Echinacea purpurea 'Meringue') should be planted in an area that receives full sun, which is 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight per day. The best time of day for sunlight is during midmorning until midafternoon since the sun is in a more direct angle and the temperature is warm, allowing for better photosynthesis. During the hottest parts of the day, shade may be beneficial to help the plant conserve water and provide respite from the scorching sun. In regions where the sun is very intense, such as the Southwest United States, the plant may benefit from an area with dappled sunlight. Purple coneflower is tolerant of slightly cooler temperatures, so adding some light shade may help to ensure the plant is not stressed in regions with hot climates.

For optimal growth of purple coneflower, it's important to prune the plant regularly. Pruning should start when the first few blooms appear in the summer and continue until early fall just before the plant is due to go dormant. Cut off any old blooms and foliage that have wilted. Trim dead or damaged stems just above the nearest leaf joint using a sharp pair of garden shears. Also remove any thin, spindly stems that arise from the plant’s base, along with any dead foliage and discolored leaves. To keep the plant looking compact, regularly trim away any overly long or leggy stems towards the base during the blooming season. In the fall, when purple coneflower goes dormant and has finished blooming, perform a hard pruning to keep the plant healthy and encourage faster growth in the spring. Cut the stems to the ground to reduce the size of the plant's top. Prune the foliage to 6-8 inches above the ground in early spring. Regular pruning of purple coneflower helps promote longer blooming periods, thicker flower heads, and better, healthier growth overall.