Coreopsis verticillata ‘Moonbeam’

Description

Coreopsis verticillata ‘Moonbeam’ is a stunning perennial known for its delicate, narrow leaves and cheerful lemon-yellow, daisy-like flowers. This hardy plant thrives in a variety of garden settings and provides long-lasting beauty from July to September. Follow this detailed planting and care guide to ensure your Coreopsis verticillata ‘Moonbeam’ flourishes year after year.

PLANTING and AFTERCARE GUIDE

Best Planting Time

• Spring: The best time to plant Coreopsis verticillata ‘Moonbeam’ is in early spring when the soil has warmed. Planting at this time allows the roots to establish before the growing season, resulting in a healthy, robust plant.
• Autumn: Alternatively, Coreopsis can be planted in autumn. This allows the plant to settle in and prepare for the cooler months, ensuring a strong start when spring arrives.

Site Selection

• Sunlight: Coreopsis thrives in full sun. Select a site that receives at least six hours of direct sunlight daily to ensure the plant blooms profusely.
• Soil: Choose well-drained soil for your Coreopsis verticillata ‘Moonbeam’. The plant does not tolerate waterlogged conditions, so ensure the soil drains well. Adding organic matter like compost will improve soil fertility and drainage.

Planting Instructions

1. Prepare the Hole: When planting Coreopsis verticillata ‘Moonbeam’, dig a hole that is twice as wide and the same depth as the root ball. This gives the roots ample space to spread and establish.
2. Soil Preparation: Mix organic matter, such as compost, into the soil to enhance fertility and improve drainage. Coreopsis  benefits from nutrient-rich soil that supports healthy growth.
3. Planting: Place the plant in the hole, ensuring the top of the root ball is level with the surrounding soil surface. Backfill the hole with soil, firming it gently to remove air pockets.
4. Watering After Planting: Water thoroughly after planting to help the soil settle and promote root establishment. Make sure the soil drains well to avoid waterlogging.

Watering Requirements

• Growing Season: Coreopsis verticillata ‘Moonbeam’ is moderately drought-tolerant once established. Water deeply during dry spells, but allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings. Avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot.
• Dormant Season: During the dormant season, reduce watering significantly. Coreopsis requires minimal moisture when not actively growing, so only water if the soil becomes excessively dry.

Feeding

• Early Spring: Apply a balanced fertiliser in early spring to give Coreopsis verticillata ‘Moonbeam’ a healthy start. This supports vigorous growth and encourages an abundant flowering season.
• Mid-Summer: A light application of fertiliser in mid-summer will help maintain the health of your Coreopsis and encourage continued blooming.

Pruning

• Deadheading: Regularly deadhead your Coreopsis verticillata ‘Moonbeam’ by removing spent flowers. This helps to prolong the blooming period and keeps the plant looking neat and tidy.
• Autumn Pruning: After the last blooms of the season fade, cut back the plant to the ground. This will prepare it for dormancy and promote healthy growth for the following year.

Mulching

• Spring: Apply a layer of mulch around the base of your Coreopsis in spring. This helps retain moisture, suppresses weeds, and regulates soil temperature during the growing season.
• Winter: In winter, mulch around the plant to protect the roots from freezing temperatures. This also helps prevent frost heaving and ensures the plant survives the winter.

Supporting the Plant

• Staking: Coreopsis verticillata ‘Moonbeam’ has a compact and bushy growth habit, so staking is usually unnecessary. However, in areas with strong winds, consider staking to keep the plant upright and prevent damage.

Final Tips

Coreopsis verticillata ‘Moonbeam’ is a low-maintenance perennial that adds stunning beauty to any garden. With its long-lasting lemon-yellow blooms and delicate foliage, Coreopsis is a perfect choice for borders, beds, and containers. By planting it in a sunny location with well-drained soil and following this care guide, your Coreopsis verticillata ‘Moonbeam’ will thrive and provide you with continuous blooms from July to September. Incorporate this lovely perennial into your garden to enjoy its cheerful presence all season long!

RHS Details

See more Coreopsis from Proctors