Description
A simply magnificent hardy perennial for any full sun to partially shaded area. Once established, plants are virtually maintenance free. Bright golden-yellow petals surround dark brown centers. Plants grow 24-36" tall. Great for beds, borders or meadow areas. Prolific bloomers, Goldsturm produce ample flowers to grace both the garden and fresh arrangements.
How to Grow
Keep weeds under control during the growing season. Weeds compete with plants for water, space and nutrients, so control them by either cultivating often or use a mulch to prevent their germination.
Mulches also help retain soil moisture and maintain even soil temperatures. For perennials, an organic mulch of aged bark or shredded leaves lends a natural look to the bed and will improve the soil as it breaks down in time. Always keep mulches off a plant’s stems to prevent possible rot.
Careful watering is essential in getting perennials off to a good start. Water thoroughly at least once a week to help new roots grow down deeply. Soil should be damp at about 1 inch below the soil surface. You can check this by sticking your finger in the soil. Water early in the morning to give all leaves enough time to dry. One inch of rain or watering per week is recommended for most perennial plants. You can check to see if you need to add water by using a rain gauge.
After new growth appears, a light fertilizer may be applied. Keep granular fertilizers away from the plant crown and foliage to avoid burn injury. Use low rates of a slow release fertilizer such as Garden-tone, as higher rates may encourage root rots.
“Deadhead”, remove spent flower heads to encourage continuous flowering and prevent seed development.
In colder regions, apply another layer of mulch (1-2 inches) after the ground freezes in fall. Evergreen boughs (from Christmas trees) provide additional protection. Remove this mulch in the spring.
Divide when plants become overcrowded, bloom size begins to diminish or plants lose their vigor. Rudbeckia can be divided every 3-4 years in spring or fall four weeks before the ground freezes. Rudbeckia has spreading roots. Spreading root systems have many slender matted roots that originate from many locations with no distinct pattern. These can crowd out their own centers. They can usually can be pulled apart by hand, or cut apart with shears or knife. Replant one division where the plant was originally and plant the extra divisions elsewhere in your garden or give them away to gardening friends. Plant the divisions immediately, or as soon as possible, and water well.
Tips
Many gardeners do not cut back perennial flower seed heads in the fall, but wait until early spring before the new foliage appears. This provides food for wildlife over the winter.
Rudbeckia makes an excellent, long lasting cut flower. Pick when flowers are fully open.
Plants are great for a pollinator garden.
