Gaillardia Seeds -Indian Blanket Flower

• Seed Count: 400 seeds
• Maturity Date: Approximately 50-60 days from germination
• Plant Type: Annual
• Origin: Native to North America
• Height: Grows 12-24 inches tall
• Light Requirement: Full sun
• Soil Preference: Well-drained, moderately fertile to poor soil
• Special Features: Banded blooms of red, pink, and yellow

History: Indian Blanketflower, scientifically known as Gaillardia, is a native North American wildflower with a long history of enchanting gardeners and naturalists alike. The flower gets its common name from its resemblance to the patterns found in Native American blankets. It has not only been admired for its stunning visual appeal but also has some traditional uses as a medicinal plant among indigenous communities. Its vibrant colors have been used to attract pollinators in natural ecosystems and restore degraded lands. The Indian Blanketflower has increasingly become a staple in gardens and meadows where it brings a splash of color and invites beneficial insects.

Uses: Indian Blanketflower is a versatile plant that adds a touch of elegance to various settings. The vibrant blooms are primarily used for ornamental purposes, and their distinctive banding of red, pink, and yellow hues make them stand out in any garden. These flowers are excellent for cutting and arranging in vases, where they bring the garden's freshness indoors. Additionally, they attract a wide range of pollinators, including bees, butterflies, and birds, enhancing the garden's ecological diversity. If you're looking to create a meadow-like setting or a wildflower patch, the Indian Blanketflower is an excellent choice. It’s also suitable for xeriscaping, as it is quite drought-resistant once established.

Growth Habit & Planting Instructions: Indian Blanketflowers are relatively easy to grow from seeds and are tolerant of a wide range of soil conditions, though they prefer well-drained soil. Begin by sowing the seeds directly into the garden after the last frost has passed. Alternatively, you can start them indoors 6-8 weeks prior to the last frost date. Plant the seeds approximately 1/8 inch deep, covering them lightly with soil. Place them in a sunny location, as they require full sun for optimal growth. Water them moderately until they are well-established. Given their height range of 12-24 inches, these plants work well in both foreground and middle-ground plantings. Once they reach maturity in about 50-60 days, you can expect a continuous bloom throughout the summer until the first frost. Since they are annuals, they will complete their lifecycle in one growing season but often self-seed, providing you with new plants the following year.