The blanket flower (lat. Gallardia, parrot flower) is one of the most attractive flowering perennials. It is robust and forms beautiful carpets of flowers that should not be missing in any perennial border. In this article, we have summarized what you need to pay attention to when it comes to care.

The bright blanket flower is robust and easy to care for

The water requirement

Regular watering is important, but don't overdo it. In general, Gallardia tolerates drought better than too much water. It is essential to avoid waterlogging, because the blanket flower is extremely sensitive to this.

Pot-grown parrot flowers require significantly more water than those that thrive in beds. Provide good drainage here with a drainage layer of expanded clay ($17.99), watering whenever the top inches of soil feel dry.

Fertilize regularly

Like all flowering plants, the blanket flower needs a lot of strength to form numerous flowers. We recommend the application of long-term fertilizers in the spring and regular fertilization throughout the entire growth period. For example, add a liquid fertilizer to the irrigation water every two to three weeks. A fertilizer with guano (121.99€) has a very favorable effect, which can ensure a real blossom explosion.

When and how is it cut?

A pruning is only necessary in autumn. However, for rich flowering, it is necessary to regularly remove all faded flowers. Cut a bouquet for the vase from time to time, this also stimulates the formation of new flowers.

Share and implement from time to time

If the parrot flower is less willing to bloom, you should divide Gallardia. Dig up the perennial in the spring and use a spade to break up the root ball into two to three individual parts that can be reused. Place them in normal topsoil which you enrich with compost and horn shavings (€32.93) and loosen up with some sand if necessary.

vermin and diseases

Cork flowers are very robust plants that are rarely attacked by diseases or pests. Even snails avoid the plants. Only aphids appear from time to time, but in most cases Gallardia can deal with them itself. If powdery mildew occurs, you should cut off the affected parts of the plant. This often solves the problem. If this is not enough, spraying with milk or agents containing silicic acid will help.

care in winter

Blanket flowers are moderately hardy. It is enough to give the parrot flower an airy winter protection from brushwood or twigs. Don't prune Gallardia too low in the fall, as its own leafy greens are excellent protection from the cold.

tips

In harsh regions, place the cockade flower in a sheltered location, for example in front of a wall. There is a milder climate here, which is very good for the sun-loving plant.

Category:

Herbs