How to Care for Mule-Ears Plants

The mule's ear -- a member of the sunflower family -- gets its name from the long pedals that somewhat resemble the ears of a mule. These plants thrive throughout undisturbed areas of the Central and Northern Rocky Mountain states, although they generally do not grow on the actual mountains. Mule ears do well in a home garden provided they live in similar conditions as their natural habitat.

Shovel
Compost

Instructions

- 1
  Select a planting site. Mule ears grow along foothills and open meadows in the wild, so provide a similar area if possible. Full sun is also a priority.
- 2
  Loosen the soil in the chosen planting site to a depth of at least 12 inches. Mule ears have long, thick roots that require a loose, well-drained soil.
- 3
  Mix 4 inches of compost into the top 12 inches of soil.
- 4
  Dig a hole for each plant, twice as wide and the same height as the root ball. Make the root ball of each plant level with the surface of the soil. Space each plant 12 inches apart.
- 5
  Water the soil until thoroughly moist to a depth of 12 inches. Water slowly to prevent flooding the soil. Water the soil to the same depth as soon as the top inch of soil feels dry.

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