Coreopsis verticillata ‘Ladybird’

Description

Coreopsis verticillata ‘Ladybird’ is a beautiful perennial that brings vibrant yellow blooms with red centers to any garden. Known for its low-maintenance nature and long blooming season, Coreopsis verticillata ‘Ladybird’ is an ideal choice for gardeners seeking a hardy and attractive addition to their landscape. Follow this detailed planting and care guide to ensure your Coreopsis verticillata ‘Ladybird’ thrives and flourishes year after year.

Best Planting Time

• Spring: Plant Coreopsis verticillata ‘Ladybird’ in early spring when the soil has warmed and the risk of frost has passed. This timing allows the plant to establish a strong root system before the growing season kicks into full gear.
• Autumn: You can also plant in autumn, allowing your Coreopsis verticillata ‘Ladybird’ to settle in before the cooler months arrive. This gives the plant a head start for robust growth in the spring.

Site Selection

• Sunlight: Coreopsis verticillata ‘Ladybird’ thrives in full sun. Select a location that receives at least six hours of direct sunlight daily for optimal flowering and growth.
• Soil: Ensure well-drained soil for your Coreopsis verticillata ‘Ladybird’. It prefers slightly dry to medium-moisture soil that does not retain excess water. Well-draining soil helps prevent root rot and keeps the plant healthy.

Planting Instructions

1. Prepare the Hole: Dig a hole that is roughly twice as wide and the same depth as the root ball of your Coreopsis verticillata ‘Ladybird’. This will give the roots plenty of room to spread out and establish themselves.
2. Soil Preparation: Mix compost or organic matter into the soil to improve fertility and drainage. This creates a nutrient-rich environment that supports healthy growth and vibrant blooms.
3. Planting: Place your Coreopsis into the hole, ensuring the top of the root ball is level with the surrounding soil surface. Backfill the hole, firming the soil gently to remove any air pockets.
4. Watering After Planting: Water thoroughly after planting to help the soil settle and promote root establishment. Ensure that the area drains well to prevent waterlogging.

Watering Requirements

• Growing Season: Once established, Coreopsis verticillata ‘Ladybird’ is drought-tolerant and requires minimal watering. During dry spells, water the plant deeply, but allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings to avoid overwatering.
• Dormant Season: Reduce watering during the dormant season. Coreopsis needs very little moisture when not actively growing, so ensure the soil remains only slightly moist.

Feeding

• Early Spring: Apply a balanced, slow-release fertiliser in early spring to give your Coreopsis verticillata ‘Ladybird’ a healthy start. This will support new growth and encourage the first blooms of the season.
• Mid-Summer: A light feeding in mid-summer can help your Coreopsis maintain vigour and continue flowering throughout the summer.

Pruning

• Deadheading: Regular deadheading is essential for Coreopsis verticillata ‘Ladybird’. Remove spent flowers to encourage continuous blooming and keep the plant looking tidy.
• Autumn Pruning: Once the blooming season has ended, cut back the stems to the ground. This will help prepare the plant for the colder months and promote healthier growth in the following season.

Mulching

• Spring: Apply a layer of mulch around your Coreopsis verticillata ‘Ladybird’ in spring. This will help retain soil moisture, suppress weeds, and maintain a stable root environment as the plant grows.
• Winter: A light layer of mulch in winter can help protect the roots of your Coreopsis from frost. This is particularly important in areas that experience freezing temperatures.

Supporting the Plant

• Staking: Coreopsis verticillata ‘Ladybird’ is typically a low-growing and bushy plant with sturdy stems. It rarely requires staking, but in very windy or wet conditions, staking may help prevent damage and ensure the plant remains upright.

Final Tips

Coreopsis verticillata ‘Ladybird’ is a hardy, low-maintenance perennial that will reward you with an abundance of cheerful, yellow and red flowers. Plant it in a sunny spot with well-drained soil, and with regular care, it will bloom continuously throughout the summer. With its vibrant colours and easy care, Coreopsis is a perfect choice for gardeners of all levels. Whether you’re looking to add a splash of colour to a border or fill containers with vibrant blooms, Coreopsis verticillata ‘Ladybird’ is sure to be a showstopper in your garden!

RHS Details

See more Coreopsis from Proctors