Indian blanket
Gaillardia pulchella
Cycle:
Annual
Watering:
Minimum
Propagation:
Seed Propagation,Division,Root Cutting,Layering Propagation
Hardiness Zone:
2 - 11
Flowers:
Red, yellow on red/yellow bicolor with dark centers Flowers
Sun:
Full sun
Leaf:
Yes
Leaf Color:
green,gray,gray
Growth Rate:
High
Maintenance:
Low
Care Level:
Medium
watering
Indian blanket (Gaillardia pulchella) should be watered deeply but infrequently. During the summer months, it needs to be watered approximately once a week or more, depending on the weather conditions. During spring and fall, water should be given every 2 weeks. In the winter, it should be watered about every 3 weeks or whenever the soil surface is dry. When watering, make sure to thoroughly douse the soil, allowing it to absorb the water slowly. Also, try to water early in the day and avoid splashing water on the leaves, as this can promote fungal growth.
sunlight
Indian blanket (Gaillardia pulchella) is a sun-loving species of plant that requires a minimum of 6 hours of direct sunlight each day for optimal growth and flowering. It thrives best in full sun during the morning and late afternoon, with some shade during the hottest part of the day. It will flower well even in partial sun, but full sun is preferred. This species does best in USDA zones 3-10 and prefers well-drained soil with plenty of compost or organic matter. Water requirements vary depending on the season, with slightly more water needed in the summer and slightly less in the winter months.
pruning
For optimal growth, Indian blanket (Gaillardia pulchella) should be pruned twice a year. Pruning should take place in early spring and again in late summer, just after flowering. In early spring, lightly prune the plant back by 1/3 of its total height. While pruning, look for any dead or damaged stems and remove them. Pruning in the spring helps to promote new growth and vigorous blooming. In late summer, cut back individual stems by up to ¼ their length to encourage a fuller, more compact plant. This process should be done right after flowering to ensure that new growth can develop before cooler temperatures arrive. Be sure not to over prune as this can lead to poor blooming and decrease the longevity of the plant. In general, only prune as much as needed to maintain the desired shape and size.