Have you tried growing Strawflowers? by Vicky Spelman

Photo:  Jennifer Spelman

The name strawflower (Xerochrysum bracteatum) doesn’t do much to excite the flower gardener—it might elicit images of a plant that's withered and tan—but strawflower blossoms will bring vivid colors to your landscape and craft projects alike. The strawflowers resemble daisies in form, but unlike daisies, the petals are stiff and papery. They aren’t true petals at all, but modified leaves called bracts.

Growing Strawflowers:  you can direct sow the seeds after danger of frost is past. As an annual, the plant grows best in regions with hot summers.  Some varieties of strawflower may get over 3 feet tall and need staking, but the newest cultivars are bred to be stocky and early blooming and need no support.

Light:  Strawflowers thrive in full sun, although they can tolerate part shade. In the latter case, they won't bloom quite as much. Growing strawflowers in full sun will help prevent weak stems that flop.

Soil:  Sandy and rocky soils are preferred over rich and heavy soils, but any soil is fine as long as excellent drainage is present. Add mulch to retain soil moisture and even the soil temperatures. When planting in the garden, dig up the soil to a depth of 10 to 12 inches and blend in 3 inches of compost.

Photo: Pixabay

Water:  These drought-tolerant flowers will still be blooming brightly in the garden after a week of dry weather, but don’t let them wither in an extended period of drought. Regular watering will keep the flowers pert and fresh.  Don't let the roots of the plant get overly soggy.

Fertilizer:  Although not heavy feeders, a monthly application of balanced flower fertilizer will keep your strawflowers blooming steadily. Strawflowers grown in containers need more fertilizing than those planted in the garden. Strawflowers don't need to be pruned regularly. However, deadheading the plant will keep the flowers blossoming.

Crafting With Strawflowers:   Harvest flowers for drying when partially opened, as they will continue to open after picking. Collect the flowers in the evening, when they are free of dew. Strawflower stems are hollow and will become brittle after drying. The best way to use them in crafts is to remove the stems at harvest and use wires in their place. Strawflowers also make attractive potpourri additions as the flowers feature excellent shape and color retention.

Photo: Pixabay

Ready to grow some strawflowers next year?  I direct sowed mine early June, and have been delighted with the results.  I'm harvesting some now to make a Fall bouquet, and some will be saved for a Spring wreath next year.