Gaillardia Seeds,
Double Sunset

Start Double Sunset indoors 8 to 10 weeks before your last frost date, or direct sow outdoors after the danger of frost has passed. Sow 1/8 inch deep at most, barely covered, since the seed germinates best with light reaching it, and keep the surface evenly moist until sprouts appear in 14 to 21 days at 60 to 65 F. Flowering begins roughly 85 to 100 days from sowing and carries on through a long season. Plants self-sow easily, so a single spring planting often returns on its own.

• Seeds germinate in 14-21 days.
• Start indoors 8-10 weeks before last frost or direct seed after last frost.
• Surface sow seeds and just lightly press into soil, as they require light in order to germinate.
• Ideal germination temperature is 60-65 F.

• Quite heat and drought tolerant.
• Plants prefer full sun and well-drained soil.
• Tolerant of low-fertility soils.
• Space plants 14-18 inches apart.

PESTS/SPECIAL CONSIDERATIONS

Generally pest-free, it may be bothered by beetles and leafhoppers. These can be controlled with the release of beneficial insects such as lacewings and ladybugs.

• Gaillardia readily self seeds year after year, but you can save seeds as well.
• Flowers are cross-pollinated by insects.
• Wear gloves when saving these seeds, as they can be sharp!
• Allow the flowerhead containing the seeds to completely mature and dry on the plant, then clip off the flowerhead and place in a container.
• Working over the top of another clean, opened container, rub the flowerheads between the palms, breaking them apart.
• The seeds can be separated from the chaff by first screening and then winnowing.
• Store in a cool, dry, dark place over winter.