Echinacea purpurea (Purple Coneflower)

Seed Treatment (Cold Stratification is Highly Recommended)

  1. Cold Stratification Method:

    • Place seeds in a damp paper towel or mix with moist sand/peat.
    • Seal in a plastic bag and refrigerate at 35–40°F (1–4°C) for 30–60 days.
    • Check periodically to ensure they remain moist but not moldy.

Planting Instructions

  1. Sowing Time:

    • Indoors: Start seeds 8–10 weeks before the last frost after stratification.
    • Outdoors: Direct sow in late fall (for natural stratification) or early spring after frost.

  2. Soil Requirements:

    • Prefers well-draining soil—loamy or sandy.
    • Tolerates poor soil but benefits from compost-rich amendments.
    • Ideal pH: 6.0–7.0 (slightly acidic to neutral).

  3. Light Requirements:

    • Requires full sun (6+ hours per day) for best flowering.

  4. Sowing Instructions:

    • Sow seeds ¼ inch (6 mm) deep and cover lightly with soil.
    • Keep soil evenly moist until germination.

  5. Germination Time:

    • Germinates in 10–20 days at optimal temperatures of 65–70°F (18–21°C).

  6. Spacing:

    • When seedlings are large enough to handle, thin or transplant 18–24 inches (45–60 cm) apart.

Growing Tips:

  • Echinacea purpurea is a drought-tolerant perennial once established.
  • Blooms from mid-summer to fall.
  • Attracts butterflies, bees, and birds, especially goldfinches.
  • Ideal for wildflower meadows, pollinator gardens, and cut flower beds.
  • Deadheading encourages more blooms; leave some flower heads for winter interest and seed-eating birds.

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