Gaillardia aristata ‘Guapa Red’

Description

Gaillardia aristata ‘Guapa Red’ is a vibrant perennial valued for its intense red daisy-like blooms, long flowering season, and ability to thrive in sunny, dry conditions. With its compact and branching habit, Gaillardia aristata ‘Guapa Red’ is ideal for borders, wildlife gardens, and gravel planting schemes. Follow this complete guide to ensure Gaillardia aristata ‘Guapa Red’ performs beautifully year after year.

PLANTING and AFTERCARE GUIDE

Best Planting Time

• Spring: Plant Gaillardia aristata ‘Guapa Red’ in spring to allow the roots to settle and strengthen before flowering begins.
• Early Autumn: Alternatively, plant in early autumn, giving it time to establish before the growing season starts.

Site Selection

• Sunlight: Gaillardia thrives in full sun. Choose a bright position to achieve maximum flowering and vibrant colour.
• Soil: Plant in free-draining soil. It tolerates poor or sandy soil exceptionally well and does not cope with waterlogging.

Planting Instructions

1. Prepare the Hole: Dig a hole twice the width of the pot and the same depth.
2. Improve the Soil: Mix in a small amount of compost or grit to enhance drainage if needed.
3. Planting: Place the plant into the hole with the crown level to the soil surface. Backfill gently and firm the soil around the plant.
4. Watering After Planting: Water thoroughly to settle the soil around the roots.

Watering Requirements

• Growing Season: Once established, Gaillardia is drought-tolerant. Water during extended dry spells, but always allow the soil to dry out between watering.
• Dormant Season: Reduce watering significantly, providing only minimal moisture if the soil becomes extremely dry.

Feeding

• Spring: Apply a light, balanced fertiliser at the start of the growing season to encourage healthy foliage and strong flowering.
• Mid-Summer: A second light feed may help prolong flowering but avoid rich fertilisers, as Gaillardia aristata ‘Guapa Red’ prefers lean conditions.

Pruning

• Deadheading: Remove spent flowers regularly to extend the blooming season and keep the plant tidy.
• Autumn Pruning: After flowering ends, cut back faded stems to maintain a neat clump and encourage robust growth the following year.

Mulching

• Spring: Apply a thin mulch around the base of your Gaillardia to help retain moisture and suppress weeds, avoiding direct contact with the crown.
• Winter: A light mulch will offer additional root protection and reduce soil disturbance.

Supporting the Plant

• Staking: Gaillardia generally retains a sturdy, compact shape and rarely requires staking, even in breezy conditions.

Final Tips

Gaillardia aristata ‘Guapa Red’ is a reliable, low-maintenance perennial that rewards gardeners with months of vivid colour. By planting it in full sun, ensuring well-drained soil, and following this simple care routine, you’ll enjoy a long season of bright red blooms that attract bees and butterflies and bring lasting warmth to your garden.