Achillea millefolium (Yarrow)

Seed Treatment

  • Cold Stratification:

    • 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..

Sowing Instructions

Indoor Sowing (Recommended for Early Blooms)

  1. Timing: Start seeds indoors 6–8 weeks before the last frost.

  2. Container & Soil: Use a well-draining seed-starting mix in trays or small pots.

  3. Sowing Depth: Surface sow—lightly press seeds into the soil but do not cover them, as they need light to germinate.

  4. Temperature: Keep soil at 65–75°F (18–24°C) for best germination.

  5. Lighting: Provide bright, indirect light or use grow lights for 12–16 hours daily.

  6. Watering: Keep the soil moist but not soggy using a spray bottle.

  7. Transplanting: When seedlings have 2–3 true leaves, harden them off before planting outdoors.

Direct Sowing (Best for Low-Maintenance Growth)

  1. Timing: Sow seeds after the last frost in spring or in late fall for natural cold stratification.

  2. Location: Choose a full sun area with well-draining soil (loamy, sandy, or rocky soils work well).

  3. Sowing Depth: Lightly press seeds into the soil but do not cover them.

  4. Watering: Keep the soil moist until seedlings establish, then water sparingly.

Germination & Growth

  • Germination Time: 10–21 days.

  • Spacing: Thin or transplant seedlings 12–18 inches apart to allow airflow.

  • Soil Preference: Prefers dry to moderately moist, well-drained soil—drought-tolerant once established.

  • Fertilizing: Not required; yarrow thrives in low-nutrient soil.

  • Bloom Time: Flowers from late spring to fall.

  • 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! ??