Description

Coreopsis ‘UpTick Yellow & Red’: A Summer Perennial with Radiant Bi-Color Blooms

Coreopsis ‘UpTick Yellow & Red’ is a perennial that bursts with cheerful color from early summer until frost. Part of the compact UpTick™ series, this variety features golden-yellow petals with deep red centers — a striking bi-color combination that brightens borders, containers, and pollinator gardens. Its tidy growth habit and long bloom period make it a favorite for gardeners looking to add reliable color with minimal upkeep.

This guide explores everything you need to know about Coreopsis ‘UpTick Yellow & Red’ — from planting and care to seasonal performance and design tips for creating bold, lasting displays.

A Striking Bi-Color Display

The flowers of ‘UpTick Yellow & Red’ showcase a sunny yellow edge surrounding a vivid red eye. Each daisy-like bloom measures about 2 inches across and stands out beautifully against the plant’s lush green foliage. This color pairing works equally well in warm-themed gardens with oranges and reds or as a contrast to cooler purples and blues.

The plant blooms nonstop from early summer into fall, making it a reliable source of color through the hottest months of the year.

Growth Habit and Size

This variety forms a compact, rounded mound, typically 12 to 14 inches tall and 14 to 16 inches wide. Its neat growth makes it ideal for edging pathways, filling front-of-border spaces, or spilling slightly over containers. The UpTick™ series is specifically bred to maintain a tidy form, resisting the legginess sometimes seen in older coreopsis varieties.

Ideal Growing Conditions

Sunlight

Coreopsis ‘UpTick Yellow & Red’ thrives in full sun, needing at least 6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily for best flowering and strongest colors.

Soil

It prefers well-drained soil but tolerates average or sandy soils. Amending soil with compost can improve fertility and help retain moisture without creating soggy conditions.

Water

Once established, it is moderately drought-tolerant, though regular watering during prolonged dry spells encourages more blooms. Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.

Planting Guide

1. Planting time – Spring after frost danger or early fall while soil is warm.
2. Prepare the site – Loosen soil and add compost if needed for drainage and nutrients.
3. Dig the hole – Twice as wide as the root ball but no deeper.
4. Set the plant – Position the root ball so the crown is level with the soil surface.
5. Backfill and water – Fill hole, firm soil gently, and water well.
6. Mulch lightly – Apply a thin layer to conserve moisture and suppress weeds.

Fertilizing

Feed lightly in spring with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer. Avoid heavy feeding, as too much nitrogen encourages foliage growth at the expense of flowers. A midseason boost can extend the bloom period.

Deadheading and Pruning

Regular deadheading — removing spent flowers — encourages continuous blooming and maintains a tidy appearance. In late fall, cut the plant back to 2–3 inches above the ground to prepare it for winter dormancy.

Winter Hardiness

‘UpTick Yellow & Red’ is hardy in USDA zones 5–9. In colder areas, apply a thin mulch layer over the root zone in late fall to protect it through winter. It will return reliably each spring with fresh growth and flowers.

Why Gardeners Love UpTick Yellow & Red

This variety offers a cheerful color palette, compact size, and exceptional bloom power. Gardeners love it for sunny borders, cottage gardens, and pollinator habitats. The flowers attract bees and butterflies, adding both beauty and ecological benefit to the landscape.

Its ability to thrive in heat and tolerate less-than-perfect soil makes it a dependable, low-maintenance perennial for busy gardeners.

Companion Planting Ideas

Pair ‘UpTick Yellow & Red’ with plants that complement or contrast its warm hues:

• Purple coneflowers (Echinacea) for bold contrast
• Russian sage or lavender for cool blue tones
• Black-eyed Susans or daylilies for a sunny, cohesive palette
• Ornamental grasses for texture and movement in mixed plantings

Mass planting creates vibrant sweeps of color, while single plants work well in smaller spaces and containers.

Container Growing

This coreopsis is well-suited for containers due to its compact form. Choose pots at least 12 inches wide with drainage holes and use a quality potting mix. Water containers regularly, as they dry out faster than garden beds, and fertilize lightly every 4–6 weeks during the growing season.

Pests and Problems

Coreopsis is generally trouble-free but can occasionally face:

• Aphids – Rinse with water or treat with insecticidal soap.
• Powdery mildew – Avoid overhead watering and provide good air circulation.
• Crown rot – Prevent with well-drained soil and moderate watering.

With proper care, these issues are rare and easily managed.

Propagation

Propagate by division in spring or early fall. Dig up mature clumps, separate them into smaller sections, and replant immediately. Hybrid varieties like UpTick do not grow true from seed, so division is the best way to preserve their characteristics.

Seasonal Performance

• Spring – Fresh foliage emerges and plants establish quickly.
• Summer – Peak bloom season; bright yellow and red flowers cover the plant.
• Fall – Blooms continue until frost; foliage stays compact and attractive.
• Winter – Dormant phase; mulch protects roots for next season.

Pollinator Appeal

The nectar-rich flowers of ‘UpTick Yellow & Red’ attract bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects, making it an excellent addition to pollinator-friendly gardens.

A Long-Blooming Garden Favorite

Coreopsis ‘UpTick Yellow & Red’ delivers months of color in a low-maintenance package. Its cheerful bi-color blooms, compact form, and pollinator-friendly nature make it a versatile choice for sunny gardens of any size.

Sunshine and Scarlet for Your Summer Garden

Planting Coreopsis ‘UpTick Yellow & Red’ adds warmth and vibrance to any landscape. Whether you’re designing a mixed border, filling containers, or creating a pollinator haven, this perennial rewards you with nonstop blooms and easy care.

Once those golden petals with red centers open in midsummer, you’ll understand why it’s a must-have for gardeners who love color that lasts all season long.