Lanceleaf Coreopsis Seeds

Lanceleaf Coreopsis, also known as ‘’sand coreopsis,’’ is also often called ‘’Tickseed Plant,’’ referring to the seeds that look like ticks. First discovered during the Lewis and Clark expedition of 1804-1806, coreopsis is a true North American wildflower, native to woodlands and prairies.

Lanceleaf Coreopsis is a hardy perennial to zone 4 in Canada that grows in small clumps that eventually form extensive colonies. The plants usually grow between two and three feet tall and produce many golden-yellow flower heads to are 1-1 ½ inch across, sure to brighten up any garden for many years.

Like its nickname ‘’sand coreopsis’’ refers to, the plants can withstand sandy soil with few nutrients. Coreopsis is a drought- and heat-resistant plant that is adaptable to many soils and growing conditions, a good addition to pollinator gardens. With many blooms on the same stalk, Lanceleaf Coreopsis makes great cut flowers.

- Latin Name: Coreopsis lanceolata
- Life Cycle: Perennial
- Canada Hardiness Zone: 4-9
- Days to Maturity: Second-year maturity
- Planting Depth: Just below the soil surface
- Plant Spacing: 30-60 cm
- Growth Habit: 40-50 cm tall

GROWING INSTRUCTIONS

There are as many varieties as there are good reasons to grow your own coreopsis. These native North American flowers are easy to maintain, drought tolerant and long blooming. The brilliant clumps of daisy-like flowers brighten up any garden space all summer long. Pollinators and birds visit the flowers constantly for the sustenance of their nectar and seeds. 

Coreopsis seeds can be started indoors 6-8 weeks before the last frost, or sown directly when the final frost has passed. Plant seeds 1 cm deep, keeping the soil moist and warm. Germination should occur in 2-3 weeks and seeds can be moved to a sunny window or under grow lights. When temperatures begin to warm up, slowly harden off seedlings to prepare them for transplanting outdoors. 

Provide your coreopsis with full sun to maximize their growth and flowering. A little afternoon shade helps during hot summers. Coreopsis will thrive when planted in well-drained, loamy or sandy soil. As long as their roots aren’t constantly soaked, they’re not picky about soil quality. Young plants should be watered regularly until they are established. After that, they become quite tolerant of drought, although the best blooming occurs with regular watering. Water early in the morning to give the soil a chance to drain and dry throughout the day. 

The cheery flowers prefer daytime temperatures ranging from 21-27 degrees and evening temperatures between 10-16 degrees. Coreopsis usually won’t require any fertilizer, but compost can be added early in the spring to give poor soils a boost. Tall coreopsis flowers may need some support to keep them from sagging and be sure to leave enough space in between plantings. They’ll need good air circulation and mature plants can grow to be 60 cm wide. Keep up with deadheading the faded flowers to ensure blooming will occur straight through the fall season. 

To enjoy a multitude of vividly coloured flowers, try starting your own coreopsis from seed. They grow well just about anywhere, bringing birds, bees and butterflies along with them. 

QUICK FACTS

- Coreopsis was made the official flower of the state of Florida in 1991.

- Coreopsis seeds will remain viable for 3 years if stored in a cool, dark place, ideally between 4 and 10⁰C. After that, the germination rate may start to go down.