Seed Treatment
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Cold Stratification:
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Mix seeds with moist sand or peat moss and place them in a sealed plastic bag in the refrigerator for 2–4 weeks before planting.
- Check weekly: If seedlings sprout in the fridge, remove them gently and plant immediately.
Sowing Instructions
Indoor Sowing (Recommended for Early Blooms)
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Timing: Start seeds indoors 6–8 weeks before the last frost.
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Container & Soil: Use a well-draining seed-starting mix in trays or small pots.
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Sowing Depth: Surface sow—lightly press seeds into the soil but do not cover them, as they need light to germinate.
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Temperature: Keep soil at 65–75°F (18–24°C) for best germination.
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Lighting: Provide bright, indirect light or use grow lights for 12–16 hours daily.
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Watering: Keep the soil moist but not soggy using a spray bottle.
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Transplanting: When seedlings have 2–3 true leaves, harden them off before planting outdoors.
Direct Sowing (Best for Low-Maintenance Growth)
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Timing: Sow seeds after the last frost in spring or in late fall for natural cold stratification.
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Location: Choose a full sun area with well-draining soil (loamy, sandy, or rocky soils work well).
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Sowing Depth: Lightly press seeds into the soil but do not cover them.
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Watering: Keep the soil moist until seedlings establish, then water sparingly.
Germination & Growth
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Germination Time: 10–30 days (after stratification).
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Spacing: Thin or transplant seedlings 12–18 inches apart to allow airflow.
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Soil Preference: Prefers dry to moderately moist, well-drained soil—drought-tolerant once established.
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Fertilizing: Not required; yarrow thrives in low-nutrient soil.
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Bloom Time: Flowers from late spring to fall.
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Deadheading: Removing spent flowers encourages continuous blooming.
Achillea millefolium (yarrow) is a low-maintenance, drought-tolerant perennial that attracts pollinators and makes an excellent addition to wildflower gardens, meadows, and borders! ??