Description
GardenAdvice Notes
Gaillardia Sunset Cutie is a type of perennial flowering plant that belongs to the sunflower family (Asteraceae). It is a compact cultivar, growing to a height of only 8-10 inches (20-25 cm) and spreading up to 12-14 inches (30-35 cm) wide.
The flowers of Gaillardia Sunset Cutie are brightly colored with vibrant shades of red, orange, and yellow, and have a daisy-like appearance with a central disc surrounded by rays. The blooms appear in summer and continue until fall, attracting bees, butterflies, and other pollinators to the garden.
Soil type-Gaillardia Sunset Cutie is a versatile plant that can grow in a range of soil types, including sandy, loamy, or clay soils. However, it prefers well-draining soil with a neutral to slightly alkaline pH. It is important to avoid planting this species in heavy or waterlogged soils, as they can lead to root rot and other diseases.
If your soil is heavy or poorly-draining, you can improve its drainage by incorporating organic matter such as compost or well-rotted manure into the soil. This will help to loosen the soil and improve its structure, allowing excess water to drain away more easily.
In general, Gaillardia Sunset Cutie prefers soil that is rich in nutrients, so you may also consider fertilizing the soil before planting. A balanced fertilizer with equal parts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium can help to encourage healthy growth and abundant flowering.
This plant is native to North America and is adapted to various soil types and growing conditions. It can grow in USDA hardiness zones 3-10, which covers a wide range of locations across the United States. However, it may not perform well in areas with extremely cold winters, as it is not fully hardy and may require protection during the winter months.
In terms of location, Gaillardia Sunset Cutie can be grown in borders, rock gardens, or containers. It is a low-growing plant, so it can be planted at the front of a border or in the foreground of a rock garden. When grown in containers, it can be used as a colorful accent plant on patios, decks, or balconies.
Another pest that can affect Gaillardia Sunset Cutie is spider mites. These tiny pests can cause stippling and discoloration of the leaves and can be controlled by spraying the plant with a strong stream of water or insecticidal soap.
In terms of diseases, Gaillardia Sunset Cutie can be susceptible to root rot if planted in poorly-draining soil. This can be prevented by ensuring the plant is grown in well-draining soil and by avoiding over-watering.
Powdery mildew can also be a problem for this plant, causing a white, powdery coating on the leaves. This can be prevented by ensuring the plant has good air circulation and by avoiding overhead watering. If powdery mildew does occur, it can be treated with a fungicide.
Propagation-Gaillardia Sunset Cutie can be propagated through both seeds and division.
Propagation by seed is straightforward and involves collecting the seeds from mature flowers in the fall and planting them directly in the soil or in pots indoors. Sow the seeds at a depth of 1/8 inch (3mm) and keep the soil moist until germination, which typically occurs in 7-14 days. Once the seedlings have developed a few sets of true leaves, they can be transplanted into their permanent location.
Propagation by division is best done in the spring or fall, when the plant is not actively flowering. Simply dig up the entire plant and gently separate the roots into smaller sections, making sure that each section has at least one shoot and a good root system. Replant the sections in their new location, ensuring that they are planted at the same depth as they were previously.
It’s important to note that Gaillardia Sunset Cutie is a cultivar and therefore may not come true from seed, meaning the resulting plants may not have the same characteristics as the parent plant. Therefore, division is often the preferred method of propagation to ensure that the new plants are identical to the parent plant.
Pruning, cutting back and dividing-Gaillardia Sunset Cutie requires minimal pruning and cutting back. Deadheading or removing spent flowers will encourage the plant to produce more blooms throughout the growing season. Simply pinch or cut off the spent blooms just below the base of the flower head.
At the end of the growing season, you can also cut back the entire plant to just above ground level. This will help to keep the plant tidy and prevent the development of fungal diseases.
Division is typically needed every 2-3 years to prevent the plant from becoming overcrowded and to rejuvenate its growth. This is best done in the spring or fall, when the plant is not actively flowering. Dig up the entire plant and gently separate the roots into smaller sections, making sure that each section has at least one shoot and a good root system. Replant the sections in their new location, ensuring that they are planted at the same depth as they were previously.
In general, Gaillardia Sunset Cutie is a low-maintenance plant that does not require extensive pruning or care. However, regular deadheading and division can help to promote healthy growth and encourage abundant flowering.
Please note our plants in most instances are delivered by our own GardenAdvice expert gardeners. Our standard UK delivery charge is £25 or if you are a MyGardenTeam member delivery is free
Our plants are guaranteed for 24 months for more details Click Here
Reviews
There are no reviews yet.