Plant family: Asteraceae

Genus: Rudbeckia

Species: hirta

200 mg packet

Plant type: Annual, Perennial, Biennial

Colors: Gold, Yellow, Red

Bloom time: Late spring - early fall

Texture: Medium

Growth rate: Medium

Height: 18" - 36"

Light requirements: Full sun

Soil needs: Moderately fertile, well drained, consistently moist soil with a ph of 5.5-7.5.

Care: Plant established plants 10" apart. Root stimulator will encourage quicker rooting and stronger root system. Use a slow release fertilizer at planting time or begin using water-soluble fertilizer at planting time and continue to use every 3 weeks throughout the growing season. Apply 3 inches of vegetative mulch around plants in summer to help retain soil moisture. Water Deeply when soil begins to dry. Dead head to keep plants neat and prevent self seeding. Remove after first frost.

Pests and diseases: Slugs, Powdery Mildew, Rust

Propagation: Sow indoors 6 - 8 weeks prior to last frost or direct sow into garden after last frost.Sprinkle seeds over soil mix and cover to a depth of 1/16 inch. Thoroughly moisten soil and keep moist throughout germination. Soil should not be soggy.  Transplant to garden when all danger of frost is gone.