Black-Eyed Susan

Black-eyed Susans grow well in average, well-drained soil with a pH of 6.0-7.5. Use a light compost dressing rather than heavy fertilizer, and give plants good air circulation to reduce leaf spotting.

Sun

Full sun

Water

Light; drought tolerant

Spacing

14 in

First harvest

80–100; perennial types bloom year 2

Tips

• Press seeds onto the soil surface with only a dusting of soil and space plants about 14 inches apart, farther for large cultivars.
• Keep seedlings moist and water established plants deeply during prolonged drought.
• Apply a thin spring compost dressing and avoid routine high-nitrogen feeding.
• Watch for dark leaf spots and remove affected leaves while keeping irrigation off the foliage.
• Deadhead to extend flowering or leave healthy seed heads for birds, and divide perennial clumps when crowded.