Blanket flowers, also known as gaillardia, are colorful and beautiful perennials that can brighten up any garden or patio. These vibrant flowers are native to North and South America and are known for their daisy-like blooms in shades of red, yellow, and orange. Growing blanket flowers in pots is a great way to enjoy their beauty even if you have limited space or poor soil quality. In this guide, we will walk you through the steps to successfully grow blanket flower plants in a pot.
Choosing the Right Pot
When selecting a pot for your blanket flower plant, opt for a container that is at least 12 inches in diameter and has drainage holes at the bottom. The size of the pot is essential as it provides ample space for the plant’s roots to grow and spread. Additionally, the drainage holes will prevent waterlogging, which can lead to root rot.
Selecting the Right Soil
Blanket flowers thrive in well-draining soil that is slightly acidic to neutral in pH. A high-quality potting mix designed for flowering plants or a blend of garden soil, perlite, and peat moss works well for growing blanket flowers in pots. Avoid using heavy clay soils as they can retain too much moisture, causing the plant’s roots to rot.
Planting Blanket Flower Plants
- Fill the Pot: Fill the bottom of the pot with a layer of gravel or broken pottery pieces to improve drainage.
- Add Soil: Fill the pot with the prepared potting mix until it is about two-thirds full.
- Planting: Carefully remove the blanket flower plant from its nursery container and gently loosen the roots. Place the plant in the center of the pot and fill in with more soil around the plant, leaving about an inch of space from the rim of the pot.
- Water: Water the plant thoroughly after planting to help settle the soil around the roots.
Sunlight and Watering
Blanket flowers require full sunlight to thrive, so place your potted plant in a location where it receives at least 6-8 hours of sunlight each day. Water your blanket flower plant when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. Avoid overwatering as it can lead to root rot. During hot summer months, you may need to water more frequently to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged.
Fertilizing
To promote healthy growth and abundant blooms, fertilize your blanket flower plant every 4-6 weeks during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for application rates, and be sure to water the plant after fertilizing to help distribute the nutrients evenly.
Deadheading and Pruning
Deadheading, or removing spent blooms, encourages your blanket flower plant to produce more flowers and prevents self-seeding. Simply pinch off the faded blooms at their base using your fingers or garden shears. Additionally, you can prune your blanket flower plant in early spring by cutting back any leggy or overgrown stems to promote bushier growth.
Pests and Diseases
Blanket flowers are relatively pest and disease resistant but may occasionally attract aphids or spider mites. To deter pests, regularly inspect your plants for any signs of infestation and treat them promptly with insecticidal soap or neem oil if necessary. Avoid overhead watering, as wet foliage can make your plants more susceptible to fungal diseases.
Winter Care
In regions where blanket flowers are not winter-hardy, you can overwinter your potted plants indoors. Before frost sets in, bring your pots indoors to a cool but bright location, such as a garage or basement. Water sparingly during winter dormancy and resume regular watering and fertilizing in early spring when new growth appears.
Conclusion
Growing blanket flower plants in pots is a rewarding experience that allows you to enjoy their vibrant blooms up close on your patio, balcony, or windowsill. By choosing the right pot, soil, sunlight exposure, and following proper care practices like watering, fertilizing, deadheading, and pest management, you can successfully grow healthy and beautiful blanket flower plants in containers. With proper care and attention, your potted blanket flowers will brighten up your outdoor space with their cheerful colors year after year.