The aptly named blackeyed Susan is an easy-to-grow perennial that lights up the garden for months at a time. The daisy-like flowers feature dark purple or black centers that make a striking contrast with the bright yellow petals. Blackeyed Susan is a member of the sunflower family, which it also resembles.
Botanically known as Rudbeckia hirta, these carefree plants are versatile, growing in borders, fields and even in containers. They make long-lasting cut flowers and attract a wide variety of wildlife, including butterflies, bees and hummingbirds. Their blooming period is long, generally lasting from late May through October.
Now is the perfect time to plant blackeyed Susan. Keep the following growing tips in mind.
Plant in full sun. Blackeyed Susan grows best in a full sun location, although it will flower in partial sun. The plant does best in a rich, well-draining soil but can tolerate less than ideal soil conditions. The richer the soil the more likely the plant will re-seed and produce new plants.
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Provide sufficient growing space. When determining the ideal spacing for blackeyed Susan, consider that the plant grows 1 to 3 feet tall or more and spreads 12 to 18 inches.
Water regularly. Blackeyed Susan can tolerate some dry conditions but does best if you keep the soil moist, but not soggy. Water when the top two inches of soil has dried out.
Prune often. Deadhead faded flowers, which will initiate re-blooming. This also prevents the plant from reseeding, if this is something you want to discourage.
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Divide periodically. Every three to four years, invigorate the planting bed by digging up and dividing the plants in the early spring. Cut each plant into two or three sections and replant.
Fertilize occasionally. Blackeyed Susans aren’t heavy feeders. Apply an organic, well-balanced fertilizer once in late spring and again in midsummer.
Julie Bawden-Davis is a garden writer and master gardener, who since 1985 has written for publications such as Organic Gardening, The American Gardener, Wildflower, Better Homes and Gardens and The Los Angeles Times. She is the author of seven books, including Reader’s Digest Flower Gardening, Fairy Gardening, The Strawberry Story Series, and Indoor Gardening the Organic Way, and is the founder of HealthyHouseplants.com.
