Coreopsis ‘Uptick Cream and Red’

Description

Coreopsis ‘Uptick Cream and Red’ is a compact, hardy perennial prized for its large, creamy-white flowers with striking ruby-red centres. Blooming in succession from summer to autumn, this sun-loving plant reaches a height and spread of 35cm, making it an excellent choice for borders, containers, and wildlife-friendly gardens. With its long-lasting blooms and low-maintenance care requirements, Coreopsis ‘Uptick Cream and Red’ is a must-have for any garden.

PLANTING and AFTERCARE GUIDE

Best Planting Time

• Spring: The ideal time to plant Coreopsis ‘Uptick Cream and Red’ is in spring when the soil starts to warm. This allows the roots to establish before the growing season, ensuring strong, healthy plants.
• Autumn: Alternatively, planting in early autumn gives your Coreopsis time to settle in before winter, leading to robust growth the following spring.

Site Selection

• Sunlight: Coreopsis ‘Uptick Cream and Red’ thrives in full sun. Choose a location that receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily to encourage continuous flowering.
• Soil: Well-drained soil is essential for Coreopsis. Avoid waterlogged areas, as excess moisture can lead to root rot. Amending the soil with organic matter, such as compost, improves drainage and fertility.

Planting Instructions

1. Prepare the Soil: Loosen the soil and mix in compost or well-rotted manure to improve fertility and drainage.
2. Dig the Hole: Make a hole twice as wide and the same depth as the root ball.
3. Position the Plant: Place Coreopsis ‘Uptick Cream and Red’ in the hole, ensuring the top of the root ball is level with the soil surface.
4. Backfill and Firm: Gently fill the hole with soil, pressing lightly to eliminate air pockets.
5. Water Thoroughly: After planting, water well to help the roots settle.

Watering Requirements

• Growing Season: Once established, Coreopsis is drought-tolerant. Water when the soil is dry, but avoid overwatering, as this can cause root problems.
• Dormant Season: Reduce watering in autumn and winter, only providing moisture if the soil becomes extremely dry.

Feeding

• Spring: Apply a balanced fertiliser in early spring to support new growth and encourage abundant blooms.
• Mid-Summer: A second light feeding can promote extended flowering and maintain plant vigour.

Pruning and Deadheading

• Deadheading: Regularly remove spent flowers to encourage continuous blooming and maintain a tidy appearance.
• Autumn Pruning: Cut back Coreopsis ‘Uptick Cream and Red’ after flowering to encourage fresh growth and prepare the plant for winter dormancy.

Mulching

• Spring: Apply a mulch layer around the base to retain soil moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature.
• Winter: A light layer of mulch can help protect the roots from cold temperatures and frost damage.

Supporting Coreopsis ‘Uptick Cream and Red’

• Generally, Coreopsis ‘Uptick Cream and Red’ has sturdy stems and a compact growth habit, meaning staking is rarely needed. However, in particularly windy areas, consider light support to prevent damage.

Final Tips

Coreopsis ‘Uptick Cream and Red’ is a resilient and easy-to-care-for perennial that rewards gardeners with months of colourful blooms. By planting in a sunny location with well-drained soil and following a simple care routine, you can enjoy its vibrant flowers from summer until autumn. With its ability to attract pollinators such as butterflies, Coreopsis is a fantastic addition to wildlife-friendly gardens. Whether planted in borders or containers, this delightful perennial brings lasting beauty to any outdoor space.

 

RHS Details

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