The flowers of this drought-tolerant annual or perennial create a blanket of yellow color.
The large clusters of small flowers attached to upright stalks attract butterflies and bees.
Most varieties flower in shades of yellow and gold, including a bright lemon yellow and soft creamy yellow.
Basket-of-gold is easily grown as a perennial in areas with mild summers.
In southern locations, it is usually grown as an annual.
In that case, give it a location with afternoon shade.
The soil needs to be well-drained; it can even be dry.
Basket-of-gold does not have any particularsoil pH requirements.
This low-growing, creeping plant is perfect for rock gardens and early summer borders.
Because it stands up well to drought, it is also a good choice forxeriscaping.
How and When to Plant Basket-Of-Gold
The plant is most commonly sold at nurseries in the spring.
Plant it when there is no longer any danger of frost.
Space the plants 12 to 18 inches apart.
Soil and Water
Excellent drainageis key for the plant, soggy soil encourages root rot.
Once established, the plant can be quite drought-tolerant.
Therefore, it tends not to do well in the South where it is best grown as an annual.
At the most, give it a balanced slow-release granular fertilizer every other year in the spring.
During the season, remove any faded foliage for a neater appearance.
Potting and Repotting Basket-Of-Gold
Basket-of-gold grows well in pots.
Choose a pot with large drainage holes and fill it with well-draining potting mix.
you could either plant basket-of-gold on its own or in a larger mixed planter as a filler.
Keep in mind that potted plants need more frequent watering and fertilization than inground plants.
As basket-of-gold is usually grown as an annual or short-lived perennial, repotting wont be necessary.
Sow seeds in flats or small pots filled with sterile damp potting mix.
Press the seeds into the soil but do not cover them, as they need light to germinate.
Keep them moist at a temperature of around 65 degrees F. The seeds germinate in 7 to 14 days.
Place the seedlings under grow lights to prevent them from getting leggy.
Harden off the seedlings before transplanting them in the garden after there is no more danger of frost.
Zones 3-7
‘Compacta’ Basket-Of-Gold
Auriniagrows 8 to 10 inches tall and bears clear yellow blooms.
Oneannual verbena, ‘Imagination’, is a standout for taking the hottest, driest conditions.
It will even do well in a clay strawberry pot!
There are several different kinds of phlox.
Garden and meadow phlox produce large panicles of fragrant flowers in a wide assortment of colors.
They also add height, heft, and charm to a border.
Phlox need amply moist soil for best overall health.
It can cover a stacked-stone wall or rocky outcropping with beautiful flowers.
Cut stems back after spring bloom to keep plants compact.
like other members of theAlyssumgenus, it is not toxic to pets.
Updated by Nadia Hassani
Alyssum.ASPCA.
