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How to Care for Echinacea

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Low-maintenance beauty

Echinacea, or coneflower, is a hardy perennial that attracts pollinators like bees and butterflies. These low-maintenance plants bloom from mid-summer to fall, bringing long-lasting colour to garden beds and naturalized areas.

Light

Echinacea thrives in full sun, needing at least six hours of direct light daily. In cooler climates, it can tolerate some afternoon shade without significantly affecting blooms.

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Watering

Water regularly during the first growing season to help roots establish. Once established, plants need water only during prolonged dry spells. Avoid overwatering—it prefers well-drained soil.

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Soil & Planting

Plant Echinacea in well-draining soil enriched with compost or organic matter. It prefers slightly acidic to neutral soil (pH 6.0–7.0). Space plants 45–60 cm (18–24″) apart to allow good air circulation.

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Growth Habit

Plants typically reach 60–90 cm tall and 45 cm wide. Their upright stems and daisy-like blooms make them great for mid-border planting or naturalistic beds.

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Fertilizing

Echinacea seldom requires fertilizer in good soil. In poorer soils, apply a slow-release, balanced fertilizer in early spring. Avoid overfeeding as it may reduce flowering.

Pruning & Deadheading

Remove spent blooms to encourage continuous flowering. In late fall, leave some seed heads for birds. Cut stems to ground level in early spring before new growth appears.

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Winter Care

Hardy across Zones 3–9, Echinacea rarely needs mulch in mild regions. In colder areas, apply a thin layer of mulch in late fall. Leaving dried stems provides winter interest and wildlife habitat.

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Pests & Disease

This plant is generally pest-resistant. You might see aphids or Japanese beetles; treat early with insecticidal soap. Good drainage and spacing help prevent fungal issues like powdery mildew.

Bonus Tips

Echinacea self-seeds and can spread naturally—remove seedlings if unwanted. It pairs well with black-eyed Susan, yarrow, and ornamental grasses to create a pollinator-friendly garden.

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