Description

Coreopsis ‘UpTick Gold & Bronze’: A Bold Burst of Summer Color

Coreopsis ‘UpTick Gold & Bronze’ is a compact perennial that brings vivid color to the garden from early summer through fall. Its golden-yellow petals, tipped with deep bronze-red centers, create a striking two-tone effect that stands out in borders, containers, and pollinator gardens. Part of the UpTick™ series, this variety is prized for its tidy habit, long bloom season, and ability to thrive in sunny, low-maintenance landscapes.

This guide explores everything you need to know about Coreopsis ‘UpTick Gold & Bronze’ — from planting and care tips to design ideas and why it’s a must-have for vibrant summer displays.

A Color Combination That Stands Out

The blooms of ‘UpTick Gold & Bronze’ feature a golden outer edge that surrounds a bold reddish-brown center. Each flower measures about 2 inches across, creating a cheerful splash of color that lasts for months. This two-tone palette works beautifully in mixed plantings, complementing warm colors like orange and red or contrasting with cool blues and purples.

The flowers rise above compact green foliage, forming neat mounds that stay attractive even when not in bloom. Unlike older coreopsis varieties that can sprawl or become leggy, the UpTick™ series maintains a tidy, rounded form throughout the season.

Growth Habit and Size

‘UpTick Gold & Bronze’ grows 12 to 14 inches tall and spreads about 14 to 16 inches wide. Its compact size makes it perfect for edging pathways, front-of-border plantings, and container gardens. Despite its small stature, the plant produces an abundance of blooms, creating a continuous display from early summer until frost.

Best Location for Planting

Coreopsis thrives in full sun. Plant ‘UpTick Gold & Bronze’ in a spot that receives at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight each day for best flowering. While it can tolerate light shade, flowering will be reduced.

This variety prefers well-drained soil and can handle sandy or average soils with ease. It is tolerant of drought once established but will bloom more vigorously with regular moisture. Good air circulation helps keep foliage healthy and reduces the risk of mildew in humid conditions.

Planting Guide for Success

1. Choose the right time – Plant in spring or early fall when temperatures are mild.
2. Prepare the soil – Loosen soil and add compost if needed to improve fertility and drainage.
3. Dig a proper hole – Twice the width of the root ball but no deeper.
4. Set the plant – Position so the crown sits level with the surrounding soil.
5. Backfill and water – Fill the hole, firm soil gently, and water thoroughly.
6. Mulch lightly – A thin layer of mulch helps conserve moisture and suppress weeds.

Watering and Feeding

Water newly planted coreopsis regularly until established. Afterward, it tolerates moderate drought but appreciates occasional deep watering during dry spells. Avoid overwatering, as soggy soil can lead to root rot.

Fertilize lightly in spring with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer. Over-fertilization can result in excessive leaf growth and fewer flowers, so err on the side of less.

Deadheading and Pruning

Deadheading spent flowers encourages continuous blooming throughout the season. Simply pinch or cut off faded blooms to keep the plant looking fresh. In late fall, cut the plant back to about 2–3 inches above the ground. This tidies the garden and prepares the plant for winter dormancy.

Winter Hardiness

‘UpTick Gold & Bronze’ is hardy in USDA zones 5–9. In colder regions, mulch lightly in late fall to protect roots through winter. The plant is generally reliable, returning year after year with fresh growth and blooms each summer.

Why Gardeners Love UpTick Coreopsis

Gardeners appreciate ‘UpTick Gold & Bronze’ for its combination of bold color, long bloom period, and compact form. It’s versatile enough for borders, pollinator gardens, and patio containers, and it thrives with minimal care. The flowers attract bees and butterflies, adding ecological value alongside visual appeal.

This variety also performs well in heat and humidity, making it an excellent choice for summer gardens across a wide range of climates.

Companion Planting Ideas

The warm gold and bronze tones of this coreopsis pair beautifully with:

• Purple coneflowers (Echinacea) for bold contrast
• Russian sage (Perovskia) for soft lavender-blue accents
• Ornamental grasses for texture and movement
• Black-eyed Susans for a warm, sunny palette

Plant it in drifts for mass color or mix with other perennials for a natural, meadow-inspired look.

Container Growing Tips

‘UpTick Gold & Bronze’ is perfectly sized for containers. Use pots at least 12 inches wide with drainage holes and a high-quality potting mix. Water regularly, as containers dry out faster than garden beds. Fertilize lightly every 4–6 weeks during the growing season to support continuous blooms.

Pests and Problems

Coreopsis is generally low-maintenance but can occasionally experience:

• Aphids – Spray with water or use insecticidal soap.
• Powdery mildew – Provide good airflow and avoid overhead watering.
• Crown rot – Prevent by ensuring well-drained soil and avoiding waterlogged conditions.

Most issues are minor and easily managed with proper care.

Propagation

You can propagate ‘UpTick Gold & Bronze’ by division or seeds. Division is best done in spring or early fall. Dig up mature clumps, separate into smaller sections, and replant immediately. While coreopsis can self-seed, hybrid varieties like UpTick may not come true from seed, so division is the preferred method for maintaining characteristics.

Seasonal Highlights

• Spring – Fresh foliage emerges; plant begins to establish.
• Summer – Peak bloom period; golden and bronze flowers cover the plant.
• Fall – Flowers continue until frost; foliage may remain green into late fall.
• Winter – Dormant period; mulch provides extra protection in colder zones.

A Perfect Choice for Pollinator Gardens

The bright flowers of ‘UpTick Gold & Bronze’ are rich in nectar and pollen, making them a favorite for bees and butterflies. Adding this coreopsis to your landscape supports local pollinators while providing months of color for you to enjoy.

A Plant That Delivers All Season

Few perennials combine long-lasting color, compact form, and easy care as well as Coreopsis ‘UpTick Gold & Bronze.’ Whether in borders, containers, or pollinator gardens, it provides vibrant blooms from early summer to frost without demanding much in return.

Golden Blooms with Lasting Impact

Planting Coreopsis ‘UpTick Gold & Bronze’ adds a cheerful burst of color to any sunny spot. With its low-maintenance nature, pollinator appeal, and extended flowering period, it’s a plant that brings both beauty and value to the garden year after year.

Once you see those gold-and-bronze blooms swaying in the summer breeze, you’ll know you’ve found a perennial worth keeping.