ironweed

Ironweed likes to be watered regularly but infrequently. Water this plant deeply 2 to 3 times a week in warmer months and once a week or less in cooler climates. Provide enough water to moisten the soil and make it damp, but not soggy. Avoid over-watering as this can lead to root rot. Water your Ironweed at the soil level and not at its foliage to avoid leaf spot.

The ironweed (Vernonia 'Southern Cross') is a robust, drought-tolerant plant species that thrives in full sun. For optimal growth, ironweed should be given at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight each day. Ideally, the plant should be placed in an area that gets full sun in the morning followed by some light afternoon shade. Ironweed grows best when temperatures range from 65 to 95 degrees Fahrenheit.

Ironweed (Vernonia 'Southern Cross') should be pruned in late winter or early spring. Pruning should remove any dead, damaged or diseased stems. Keep pruning cuts to healthy, living tissue, as reducing too much of the living stem can reduce its flowering potential. During pruning, cut the old flower stems down to the ground as flowers are typically produced on new growth. Prune no more than 1-third of the plant's overall height to ensure enough foliage remains for the plant to remain healthy. If the plant has become overgrown, prune it more heavily over 2 to 3 years, rather than all at once.