Ratibida
Flower
Start transplants in a cold frame in early spring, or direct sow in May to June. Starting indoors requires vernalization – wrap planted pots in plastic and store in the refrigerator for one week, and then provide 20°-24°C (68°-75°F). Do this step 4-6 weeks before planting out. Seeds will germinate in 7-42 days.
Ratibida
How to Grow:
Flower
Timing:
Start transplants in a cold frame in early spring, or direct sow in May to June. Starting indoors requires vernalization – wrap planted pots in plastic and store in the refrigerator for one week, and then provide 20°-24°C (68°-75°F). Do this step 4-6 weeks before planting out. Seeds will germinate in 7-42 days.
Starting:
Barely cover the seeds with soil. Transplant or thin to stand 30-60cm (12-24″) apart.
Growing:
Stake tall growing plants in windy gardens. Ordinary, well-drained soil will do. Ratibida is susceptible to foliar diseases like powdery and downy mildew, fungal spots, and leaf smut. To avoid these, mulch around the plants and only water in the morning, avoiding getting the leaves wet. These plants are highly resistant to heat and humidity, and they are suitable for xeriscaping.
Harvest:
