How to Grow Strawflower Plants
Annual, Helichrysum Bracteatum
Are Strawflowers a flower or a herb? You make the call. But, for the record,
let's make sure you know that Strawflowers are classified as a herb. Best
of all, they are easy to grow.
Natives of Australia, Strawflowers grow up to three feet tall. These "Aussies"
have big blooms that come in yellow, orange, red, rose, white, and pink.
They look good in the flower bed, in vases, corsages, bouquets, and more.
Once they begin to bloom in mid summer, they will reward you with bursts
of color right up to frost. With a little luck, they may survive the first
light frost.
Strawflowers, or Helichrysum, are "everlasting" flowers as they can be dried
and will last a long time. They make excellent winter bouquets and are popular
with crafters.
Propagation:
Strawflower are grown from seed. Strawflower seeds can be directly seeded
into your flower garden or started indoors for transplanting later. If planting
outdoors, sow them just a few days before the last frost date for your area.
Sow Strawflower seeds, covering them lightly with soil. Space seeds or seedlings
18" apart to give these big plants ample room to grow.
How to Grow Strawflower Plants:
Strawflower are easy to grow. They prefer full sun to partial shade. They
will do well in poor to average soils, and tolerate heat and drought conditions.
Water them during dry periods, once or twice per week. Add a general purpose
fertilizer once or twice a season for maximum plant growth, and to promote
big blooms.
Once your Strawflower are established, they will grow well. They will bloom
from mid-summer right up to frost. They may survive light frosts.
Insect and Disease:
Strawflower are fairly resistant to insects and disease. If insect or disease
problems occur, treat early with organic or chemical insect repellents and
fungicide.
Drying:
Cut Strawflowers just before full bloom. Hang upside down to dry in a dry,
well ventilated area.
More Information:
How
to Grow Strawflower Plants
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