The easy-care coneflower can either be cut back immediately after the flowering period in autumn or only in the following spring. Cut off wilted inflorescences immediately, then stimulate your plant to produce new flowers.

The coneflower is a good cut flower in a vase

Cut coneflowers for the vase

Many types of coneflower are suitable as cut flowers for the vase. The purple coneflower is particularly durable in this respect, it belongs to the genus Rudbeckia. Some Echinacea varieties have slightly unsightly hanging flower tongues, but there are also varieties without this "blemish". Coneflowers go very well with colorful summer bouquets. Species with longer stems are particularly suitable for this.

Cut the roots of the coneflower

To ensure that you always have flowering perennials in your garden, it is advisable to regularly divide and rejuvenate the plants. About every three to four years, dig up your coneflower and use a spade to separate a section or two from the rootstock to plant elsewhere.

Cutting coneflowers for medicinal purposes

Echinacea is a well-known medicinal plant. It is mainly used to prevent susceptibility to infections and to treat colds. External use is also possible, for example for abscesses, boils and poorly healing wounds. Tinctures are commercially available, but you can make your own, as can tea blends.

If you would like to make echinacea into a tincture or tea yourself, then cut off the above-ground parts of the plant during the flowering period, from July to September. Leaves, flowers and stems are used.

The roots can also be used for medicinal purposes. However, the plants should be about four years old and quite vigorous. You can then cut part of the roots from October to April.

The best tips for cutting coneflowers:

  • cut back in fall or spring
  • With some varieties, a second flowering is possible if you cut back early
  • Cut coneflowers for the vase in the morning
  • Cut Echinacea as a medicinal herb during the flowering period

tips and tricks

Coneflowers are ideal for colorful summer bouquets. If you like cut flowers, plant different colored varieties or a variety with double flowers.

Category:

Herbs