Mohr's Barbara's Buttons

What you'll need:

Seeds or young plants of Mohr's Barbara's Buttons (you can find these at native plant nurseries or online)

A pot with good drainage holes or a garden bed

Well-draining soil (a mix of regular garden soil and sand works well)

• A sunny spot in your yard or a bright windowsill if growing indoors

When to start:

This plant loves warmth, so it’s best to start planting in spring after the last frost. If you're sowing seeds, begin them indoors about 6-8 weeks before the last frost date or directly sow them outside when the weather warms up.

Choosing the right location:

Mohr's Barbara's Buttons thrive in full sun but can handle a bit of light shade. They’re perfect for wildflower gardens or naturalized areas because they’re native plants that don’t need much pampering. If you’re planting in pots, just make sure they get plenty of sunlight throughout the day.

Tip: Before planting, loosen the soil with a garden fork or your hands to help roots spread easily.

If you’re using seeds:

1. Fill small pots or seed trays with a mix of soil and sand.
2. Sprinkle the seeds on top and lightly cover them with a thin layer of soil—don’t bury them too deep!
3. Water gently to keep the soil moist but not soggy.
4. Place the pots in a warm, sunny spot.
5. Germination can take anywhere from 2 to 4 weeks. Be patient!

If you’re using young plants:

1. Dig a hole slightly larger than the root ball of the plant.
2. Gently place the plant into the hole and fill the space around it with soil.
3. Press down lightly to secure the plant in place.
4. Water thoroughly after planting to help the roots settle in.

Plant spacing:

If you’re planting multiple Barbara’s Buttons in the ground, space them about 12 inches apart. This gives them enough room to grow without competing for nutrients.

Tip: If you’re planting outdoors, adding a bit of mulch around the base can help retain moisture and prevent weeds from taking over.

Watering:

• Once established, this plant is pretty drought-tolerant, but while it’s still young, water it regularly to keep the soil slightly moist.
• After the first few weeks, you can reduce watering—just give it a good soak once the top inch of soil feels dry.
• Always water at the base of the plant rather than overhead to avoid wetting the leaves, which can lead to disease.

Sunlight needs:

• These plants love sunshine, so aim for at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day.
• If you live in an area with very hot summers, a little afternoon shade won’t hurt.

Feeding:

• You don’t need to fertilize much—Barbara’s Buttons are low-maintenance plants.
• If you want to give them a boost, use a light application of a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring.

Weeding:

• Keep the area around your plants weed-free, especially during their first year of growth.
• Mulching helps prevent weeds and keeps the soil moist.

Tip: Deadheading (removing spent flowers) can encourage more blooms and keep your plant looking tidy.

When to enjoy the blooms:

Mohr's Barbara's Buttons typically bloom in late spring to early summer, producing clusters of small, button-like white or pinkish flowers. The flowers are not only beautiful but also attract pollinators like bees and butterflies, making them a great addition to any garden.

How to harvest seeds (optional):

If you’d like to collect seeds for next year:

1. Allow some flower heads to dry on the plant.
2. Once the flower heads turn brown and feel papery, snip them off and place them in a paper bag.
3. Shake the bag gently to release the seeds.
4. Store the seeds in a cool, dry place until you’re ready to plant again.

Tip: Leaving some flowers on the plant instead of harvesting all the seeds can help the plant self-seed naturally in your garden.

Q: Why are my Barbara's Buttons not blooming?

A: They might not be getting enough sunlight. Make sure they’re planted in a spot with at least 6 hours of direct sun daily. Also, check if they’re getting enough water—too little or too much can affect flowering.

Q: Can I grow Barbara's Buttons in containers?

A: Yes! Just make sure the container is large enough (at least 12 inches wide) and has good drainage. Use well-draining soil and place it in a sunny spot.

Q: Do these plants attract wildlife?

A: Absolutely! Their flowers are magnets for bees, butterflies, and other beneficial pollinators. Plus, birds may come by to eat the seeds after the flowers fade.

Q: Is this plant deer-resistant?

A: Yes, it’s considered deer-resistant because of its tough, fibrous leaves that deer tend to avoid. However, in areas with heavy deer pressure, no plant is completely safe!

Q: What should I do if the leaves turn yellow?

A: Yellowing leaves could mean overwatering or poor drainage. Check the soil—if it’s soggy, reduce watering and ensure the pot or area has proper drainage.