This stunning Daisy-like flower is perfect for a loner-lasting display of flowers in a beautiful ornamental garden. The Indian Blanket flowers also known as Gaillardia flowers are easy to grow and easier to care for once established. They are perennial plants that bloom all summer, often extending their bloom periods and displaying their stunning flowers for a longer time. 

But the question still remains, "how to plant Gaillardia seeds and grow them?" So, this article will do a deep dive into growing Blanket Flower from seeds. Read on to know more!

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• Know More About the Gaillardia Flowers

Gaillardia or Blanket Flowers are hardy and can grow almost anywhere once established. But before you grow any kinds of flowers or plants, we believe knowing them better is key. So, here are a few things you must know about Blanket Flowers:

1. Origins of Blanket Flowers

Gaillardia, commonly known as Blanket Flowers, are native to North and South America. They belong to the Asteraceae family and are named after an 18th-century French magistrate and botanist, M. Gaillard de Charentonneau.

2. Gaillardia Growth Habit

Gaillardia flowers are perennial plants that bloom all summer, characterized by their vibrant and daisy-like flowers with red, orange, and yellow hues. They grow in a mounded, clumping habit, typically reaching heights of 12 to 18 inches.

3. Blanket Flower Varieties

There are numerous cultivars and species, including Gaillardia aristata (common Blanket Flower) and Gaillardia pulchella (Firewheel). Each variety boasts unique color patterns and growth characteristics that are super fun to observe!

• Gaillardia Plants Are More Than Just Lookers! - Blanket Flower Benefits

Blanket Flowers are more than just lookers... they're equally beneficial and can help with a variety of things. So, know more about Blanket Flowers with these benefits that they provide:

1. Anti-inflammatory Properties

The Gaillardia plant has been used in traditional medicine for its anti-inflammatory properties. The extracts of Blanket flowers are believed to possess properties that help reduce swelling and pain.

2. Antioxidant Activity

Gaillardia flowers contain compounds with antioxidant properties, which help in neutralizing harmful free radicals in the body.

3. Wound Healing

Some cultures use Blanket Flower Gaillardia to promote wound healing, utilizing its natural antiseptic qualities to clean and protect minor cuts and abrasions.

• Planting Gaillardia Flower Seeds

While this flowering plant is pretty hardy once established, it still needs good amounts of care in order to thrive when growing from seeds. So, here are a few Gaillardia flower care tips when planting their seeds:

1. Site Selection 

Choose a sunny location with well-drained soil. Gaillardia plants thrive in full sun and can tolerate poor soil conditions. However, for the best results, you must make use of a soil that will allow for proper drainage, aeration, and root development. The best soil to grow seeds, generally is Cocopeat. So, soak your cocopeat and use it grow your seeds!

2. Sowing Gaillardia Seeds

For knowing how to plant Gaillardia seeds, here's what you do: start preparing the soil by loosening it to a depth of about 6 inches. When it is deep enough, scatter your Gaillardia flower seeds evenly and cover them lightly with soil over the top.

3. Germination

Water the area gently but thoroughly. The seeds typically germinate within 1 to 2 weeks. For properly growing the Blanket flower from seed, ensure consistent moisture during the germination period.

4. Transplanting

Once the seedlings have developed a few sets of true leaves, they can be transplanted to their final location. Space the plants about 12 to 18 inches apart to allow for adequate growth.

• Gaillardia Flower Care: Caring for the Plant Once it is Established

Since the Blanket Flower plant is rather hardy when established, it does not require as much care or attention. However, as a gardener, it is crucial for your plant's health that you give it the right kind of care at all times. So, here are a few care tips of the Blanket Flower plant post-establishment:

1. Watering the Plant

 

Once established well, Gaillardia flower plants are drought-tolerant. But that doesn't mean that they do not need watering. They just need more infrequent watering. So, water them deeply after allowing the soil to dry out between watering sessions. Ideally, the top inch of the soil should be dry before you consider watering these plants again.

You can also make use of Ugaoo's Sustee Watermeter to tell you when it is the right to water your plant. This device will give you indication according to your plants' needs for water. So, when the stick is blue, your plant is perfectly watered. However, it needs watering when the stick turns white. This way, you can completely avoid the risk of overwatering your precious plants!

2. Fertilizing your Blanket Flower Plant

These flowering plant needs minimal fertilization. Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer every 6-7 months to ensure proper growth. Additionally, if you're looking to give your plants something to boost and promote better flowering throughout the year, Epsom Salt is definitely going to do the trick for you!

3. Pruning and Deadheading

Removing spent or dead flowers is called deadheading. This is a process which encourages continuous and healthy blooming. Additionally, it also prevents your plants from becoming leggy and keeps them healthy, happy, and thriving.

4. Pest and Disease Control

Gaillardia flowers are somewhat resistant to pests but can occasionally be infected by aphids or powdery mildew. To treat aphids, you can make use of Ugaoo's Neem Oil or NeemGuard Spray. However, powdery mildew can be slightly more tricky. So, for this, make use of a simple milk spray and wash/wipe down the powdery substance you see on the leaves of your plant. 

• Using Gaillardia or Blanket Flowers in Ornamental Displays

Here are a few different ways in which Gaillardia flowers work very well in ornamental gardens:

1. Landscape Design

Gaillardia plants are excellent for adding vibrant color to borders, rock gardens, and wildflower meadows. Their long blooming season makes them a valuable addition to any garden.

2. Cut Flowers

The bright and cheerful flowers of Gaillardia make excellent cut flowers. Harvest them in the morning when they are fully open for the best vase life.

3. Companion Planting

Blanket flowers pair well with other drought-tolerant plants such as lavender, yarrow, and salvia. They also attract pollinators like bees and butterflies, enhancing the biodiversity of the garden.

4. Container Gardening

Gaillardia can be grown in containers, providing a splash of color to patios and balconies. Ensure the pots have good drainage and use a quality potting mix.

So, where will you be growing your stunning Gaillardia flowers this season?

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