Do Coneflowers Bloom the First Year?

Seeds

• Seed-grown plants usually won't flower the first year of planting because they need at least one full growth cycle before they produce flower buds. Starting the seeds in fall, indoors or outside, increases the likelihood of flowering during the first summer after planting. Sowing directly in the flowerbed in early fall allows the seeds to experience winter cold, which aids in germination. These seeds will begin growing in spring, but they may not flower. Starting the seeds indoors in pots in late summer or early fall increases the chances of flowering the following summer, since the plants will experience one growth cycle before transplanting. Seed germinates best indoors when the soil is moist and maintained at a temperature of 70 degrees Fahrenheit.

Divisions

• Recently divided coneflowers often flower the first year after replanting. Coneflowers benefit from division every three years. Dig up the existing plants in spring just as new growth begins or in fall before they die back. Tease the roots apart into separate plants, using your fingers. Coneflowers require replanting at the same depth as they were previously growing. Space plants about 12 inches apart. The divided coneflower usually flowers the summer immediately following division, although they may not reach their peak bloom until the second year.

Transplants

• Nursery-grown transplants usually flower reliably the first year after planting. These seedlings are started in advance to ensure they are ready for quick flowers. When planting seedlings, select a site that receives all-day sunlight and contains rich, well-drained soil. Transplants must be planted at the same depth they were previously growing and spaced 12 inches apart. Coneflower doesn't tolerate root disturbance, which can harm the plant or delay flowering, so avoid damaging the roots or purchase transplants in biodegradable peat pots.

Basic Care

• Keeping the soil moist but not soggy improves the chances of flowering. Generally, 1 inch of water weekly or enough to moisten the top 6 inches of soil supplies sufficient moisture. A 2-inch layer of mulch helps retain the moisture in the soil and minimizes irrigation needs. Coneflower rarely requires fertilization, but a light application of 1/4-pound of 12-6-6 fertilizer sprinkled over 25 square feet of soil in early spring may aid growth and flowering. Water after application so the fertilizer dissolves into the soil. Once the coneflower begins flowering, pinch off the blooms as they die to help encourage further flower formation.