Strawflowers (Helichrysum bracteatum) are unique, vibrant plants that bring lasting beauty to any garden. Known for their papery, dry texture, strawflowers make excellent cut flowers and are also a favorite for flower arrangements. With a little care, they thrive in sunny spots and well-drained soil, providing color from summer to fall. Growing strawflowers can be rewarding, and in this article, we’ll explore seven essential tips to help you grow these delightful blooms with ease.
Strawflowers are hardy and drought-tolerant, but they still need proper attention to flourish. Whether you’re an experienced gardener or a beginner, following these tips will ensure that your strawflowers grow healthy and strong. Let’s dive into the best practices for cultivating this stunning flower in your garden.
How To Grow Strawflowers: 7 Tips For Success
1. Choose The Right Location
Strawflowers love the sun. They need at least six hours of direct sunlight each day to thrive. When selecting a planting spot, look for an area in your garden that gets full sun. These flowers do best in well-drained soil, which helps to avoid root rot and other issues related to excessive moisture.
If your garden has heavy or clay-like soil, consider planting strawflowers in raised beds or containers where the drainage is better. You can also improve the soil by adding organic matter such as compost or well-rotted manure. Strawflowers prefer slightly acidic to neutral soil with a pH of 6.0 to 7.0.
2. Start With Quality Seeds or Transplants
You can grow strawflowers from seeds or buy young plants from a nursery. If you’re starting from seed, plant them indoors 6-8 weeks before the last frost date in your area. This gives them a head start, allowing them to establish strong roots before being moved outdoors.
To start from seed, fill seed trays with a well-draining seed-starting mix, and lightly press the seeds into the surface. Cover them with a thin layer of soil, and keep the soil moist but not soaking wet. Place the trays in a warm spot to encourage germination. Once the seedlings have at least two sets of leaves, they can be hardened off and moved outside.
Alternatively, you can purchase transplants, which are often available in garden centers during the spring. If you choose this method, be sure to select healthy plants with strong stems and vibrant leaves.
3. Watering: Keep It Consistent, But Not Too Much
While strawflowers are drought-tolerant once established, they still require consistent watering, especially during their early growth stages. Water the plants deeply but infrequently to encourage strong root development. It’s essential to water at the base of the plant to avoid wetting the foliage, as this can lead to fungal diseases.
The goal is to keep the soil evenly moist but not waterlogged. Overwatering can cause the plants to suffer from root rot. Check the soil regularly by sticking your finger about an inch deep; if it feels dry, it’s time to water. However, if it still feels damp, wait another day or two before watering again.
In areas with hot summers, you may need to water more often, especially in containers, as they can dry out quickly.
4. Thin and Space Properly
Strawflowers can grow quite tall, reaching up to 3 feet (90 cm) in height, so it’s important to give them enough space to grow. When planting, ensure that the plants are spaced at least 12 to 18 inches (30 to 45 cm) apart. This spacing allows for adequate air circulation and prevents the flowers from becoming overcrowded, which can lead to disease and poor flower production.
If you started your strawflowers indoors or in trays, thin the seedlings when they have their first true leaves. Select the strongest plants and remove the weaker ones. This helps to prevent competition for nutrients and light, ensuring the remaining plants have the best chance of thriving.
5. Fertilize Lightly
Strawflowers don’t require heavy feeding, but they can benefit from a little fertilization during their growing season. Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer or an organic option like compost. Apply the fertilizer at planting time, and then again in mid-summer when the plants are actively growing.
Avoid over-fertilizing, as too much nitrogen can result in lots of lush foliage but fewer flowers. Strawflowers are relatively low-maintenance and do best when given just enough nutrients to grow strong and healthy.
If you’re growing strawflowers in containers, they may need more frequent feeding, as nutrients can leach out with watering. In that case, consider using a diluted, water-soluble fertilizer every 4-6 weeks throughout the growing season.
6. Prune and Deadhead Regularly
Regular pruning and deadheading are key to keeping strawflowers blooming all season long. Once the flowers start to fade, it’s important to remove spent blooms promptly. This encourages the plant to produce more flowers and prevents it from focusing energy on producing seeds.
To deadhead, simply pinch or snip off the old flowers just above the first set of healthy leaves or the stem. Strawflowers have a strong, woody stem, so you may need a sharp pair of scissors or garden shears to cut through the flower heads cleanly.
Additionally, cutting back the plants when they become leggy or overgrown will help to maintain their shape and encourage bushier growth. Pruning also improves airflow, which is important for preventing fungal diseases like powdery mildew.
7. Protect Against Pests and Diseases
Strawflowers are relatively pest-resistant but can occasionally attract aphids, caterpillars, or spider mites. Keep an eye on your plants for signs of pests, such as discolored leaves or webs. If pests become a problem, treat the plants with insecticidal soap or a mixture of water and neem oil.
In addition to pests, strawflowers can sometimes suffer from fungal diseases like mildew or root rot. To reduce the risk of fungal infections, water at the base of the plant, avoid overhead watering, and ensure that the plants are spaced properly for air circulation. If you see any yellowing or damaged leaves, remove them immediately to prevent the spread of disease.
For severe fungal problems, consider using a fungicide. Be sure to follow all label instructions carefully to ensure the health of your plants and the surrounding environment.
Conclusion
Growing strawflowers is a rewarding experience for gardeners of all skill levels. With their vibrant colors, long-lasting blooms, and ease of care, they are a great addition to any garden. By following these seven essential tips—choosing the right location, watering consistently, pruning regularly, and managing pests—you can enjoy a beautiful display of strawflowers that will last all summer long. Whether you’re growing them for cut flowers or to enjoy in your garden, strawflowers are sure to impress with their unique beauty and resilience.
By keeping these simple yet effective steps in mind, you’ll be able to create a garden full of thriving, colorful strawflowers year after year. Happy gardening!
