Woolly Fleabane

What you'll need:

Woolly Fleabane seeds (you can find these at garden centers or online)

A small pot or a patch in your garden

Well-draining soil (regular potting soil mixed with some sand works well)

• A sunny or partially shaded spot

When to start:

Woolly Fleabane is pretty hardy and can be planted in either spring or fall. Spring planting gives the plant time to establish before summer, while fall planting allows roots to settle before winter.

Choosing a location:

This plant loves sunshine but can handle partial shade too. Make sure the area gets at least 4-6 hours of sunlight daily. If you're using pots, place them where they’ll get plenty of light but are protected from harsh winds.

If you have seeds:

1. Fill a small pot with well-draining soil.
2. Sprinkle the seeds on top of the soil — don’t bury them too deep; just press them lightly into the surface.
3. Water gently to keep the soil moist but not soggy.
4. Place the pot in a sunny spot.
5. Seeds should germinate in about 1-2 weeks.

If you have seedlings:

1. Dig a small hole in your garden or pot, slightly larger than the root ball of the seedling.
2. Gently place the seedling in the hole and cover the roots with soil.
3. Lightly press the soil around the plant to secure it.
4. Water immediately after planting.

Planting tips:

• If planting multiple Woolly Fleabanes, space them about 8-12 inches apart to give them room to grow.
• In pots, one plant per container is usually enough unless you’re using a large planter.
• After planting, add a thin layer of mulch to help retain moisture and protect the roots.

Watering:

• Woolly Fleabane doesn’t like to be too wet. Water when the top inch of soil feels dry.
• Usually, this means watering every few days in warm weather and less often in cooler weather.
• Always water at the base of the plant to avoid getting the leaves too wet.

Feeding time:

• This plant doesn’t require heavy feeding. A light application of general-purpose fertilizer once or twice during the growing season is enough.
• Too much fertilizer can make the plant leggy, so go easy!

Sunlight and temperature:

• Woolly Fleabane prefers cooler temperatures and can tolerate light frost.
• It enjoys full sun but can also thrive in partial shade, especially in hotter climates.
• If you notice the plant wilting in extreme heat, provide some afternoon shade.

Minor problem solving:

• Yellowing leaves? You might be overwatering. Let the soil dry out a bit before the next watering.
• Plant looking sparse? Prune lightly to encourage bushier growth.
• Pests aren’t usually a big issue, but if you see aphids, spray them off with water or use a mild soap solution.

When to pick your flowers:

• Woolly Fleabane blooms from late spring to early fall. The daisy-like flowers are usually white or pale pink with yellow centers.
• You can cut flowers for bouquets when they’re fully open but still fresh.

How to pick:

• Use scissors or pruning shears to cut the flower stem just above a leaf node (where the leaf meets the stem).
• This encourages the plant to produce more flowers.

After harvesting:

• Cut flowers can last a few days in a vase with fresh water.
• Removing spent blooms (deadheading) will encourage the plant to keep flowering throughout the season.
• At the end of the season, let some flowers go to seed if you want the plant to self-sow for next year.

Q: Can I grow Woolly Fleabane indoors?

A: While it’s possible, Woolly Fleabane prefers outdoor conditions. If you do grow it indoors, place it near a sunny window and ensure good air circulation.

Q: How do I stop my Woolly Fleabane from spreading too much?

A: Regular pruning helps keep the plant compact. Also, remove any unwanted seedlings that pop up if the plant self-seeds.

Q: Why are my Woolly Fleabane’s leaves turning brown?

A: Brown leaves could indicate overwatering or poor drainage. Ensure the soil isn’t staying too wet, and consider adding more sand to improve drainage.

Q: Is Woolly Fleabane safe around pets?

A: Yes, Woolly Fleabane is non-toxic to pets, so it's a pet-friendly choice for your garden.

Q: Can I divide my Woolly Fleabane?

A: Yes! Every few years, you can dig up the plant, divide the root ball, and replant the sections to rejuvenate it and propagate new plants.