Description
Coreopsis UpTick Yellow & Red
Coreopsis, commonly known as Tickseed, is a versatile and low-maintenance perennial that has earned its place as a staple in gardens worldwide. The UpTick Yellow & Red variety takes the beauty of this plant to the next level, showcasing vibrant yellow petals with a deep, ruby-red center. This unique color combination creates a bold and cheerful addition to any garden landscape. Ideal for garden beds, borders, containers, or pollinator gardens, Coreopsis UpTick Yellow & Red is a must-have for gardeners of all skill levels.
Features and Benefits:
- Stunning Bicolor Blooms: The rich ruby-red centers contrast beautifully with the bright yellow petals, offering a striking visual appeal throughout the growing season.
- Compact and Tidy Growth Habit: Reaching a mature height of 12-14 inches and spreading 12-16 inches, this variety is perfect for small spaces, containers, and edging.
- Extended Bloom Time: UpTick Yellow & Red produces a profusion of blooms from late spring to early fall, ensuring months of vibrant color.
- Pollinator-Friendly: Attracts bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects, making it an excellent choice for supporting local ecosystems.
- Low Maintenance: Known for its drought tolerance, deer resistance, and overall hardiness, this Coreopsis is perfect for low-care gardens.
- Versatile Use: Whether used in mass plantings, mixed perennial borders, or as a standalone feature, this plant adds a lively touch to any garden design.
- Hardiness: Thrives in USDA hardiness zones 5-9, making it suitable for a wide range of climates and conditions.
Ideal For:
- Garden borders
- Patio containers
- Pollinator gardens
- Rock gardens
- Cut flower arrangements
Specifications:
- Botanical Name: Coreopsis grandiflora ‘UpTick Yellow & Red’
- Height: 12-14 inches
- Spread: 12-16 inches
- Sun Requirements: Full sun
- Soil Type: Well-drained soil
- Bloom Time: Late spring to early fall
- Hardiness Zones: 5-9
How to Grow Coreopsis UpTick Yellow & Red
Growing Coreopsis UpTick Yellow & Red is simple and rewarding. With its vibrant flowers and resilient nature, this plant thrives with minimal care. Here’s a step-by-step guide to ensure your Coreopsis flourishes:
1. Choosing the Right Location Coreopsis UpTick Yellow & Red loves full sun. Select a location that receives at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily. Proper sunlight is essential for healthy growth and prolific blooming.
2. Soil Preparation Although adaptable to various soil types, this Coreopsis prefers well-drained soil. Follow these steps for optimal soil conditions:
- Loosen the soil to a depth of 12 inches.
- Incorporate compost or organic matter to improve fertility and drainage.
- Aim for a soil pH between 6.0 and 7.5 (slightly acidic to neutral).
3. Planting
- Timing: Plant in spring after the last frost date or in early fall to give roots time to establish before winter.
- Spacing: Space plants 12-16 inches apart to allow for adequate air circulation and prevent overcrowding.
- Depth: Dig a hole slightly larger than the root ball. Position the plant so the crown is level with the soil surface. Backfill with soil and gently firm it around the base.
4. Watering
- Newly Planted: Water regularly during the first few weeks to help establish a robust root system.
- Established Plants: Coreopsis is drought-tolerant and only needs watering during prolonged dry periods. Allow the soil to dry out between waterings to prevent overwatering.
5. Fertilizing Coreopsis UpTick Yellow & Red is not a heavy feeder. Over-fertilizing can lead to lush foliage at the expense of blooms. To maintain healthy growth:
- Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring.
- Alternatively, enrich the soil with compost or aged manure during planting.
6. Mulching Apply a 1-2 inch layer of organic mulch around the base of the plant to:
- Retain soil moisture
- Suppress weeds
- Regulate soil temperature Keep mulch a few inches away from the crown to avoid rot.
7. Deadheading and Pruning
- Regularly remove spent flowers (deadheading) to encourage continuous blooming and maintain a neat appearance.
- Cut back the plant to the ground in late fall or early spring to prepare it for new growth.
8. Pest and Disease Control Coreopsis UpTick Yellow & Red is relatively pest- and disease-resistant. However, occasional issues may arise:
- Aphids: Treat infestations with a strong spray of water or insecticidal soap.
- Powdery Mildew: Prevent by ensuring proper air circulation and avoiding overhead watering.
9. Overwintering In colder climates (zones 5-6):
- Add a layer of mulch or straw in late fall to protect the roots from freezing temperatures.
- Avoid excessive winter moisture to prevent root rot.
10. Propagation Coreopsis benefits from division every 2-3 years to rejuvenate the plant and maintain its vigor:
- Dig up the plant in early spring or late fall.
- Divide the root clump into smaller sections, each with healthy roots and shoots.
- Replant divisions in well-prepared soil and water thoroughly.
11. Companion Planting Pair Coreopsis UpTick Yellow & Red with other sun-loving perennials such as:
- Echinacea (Coneflower)
- Rudbeckia (Black-Eyed Susan)
- Salvia
- Gaillardia (Blanket Flower) These combinations create visually stunning and ecologically beneficial garden spaces.
12. Container Gardening Coreopsis UpTick Yellow & Red thrives in containers. For container planting:
- Choose a pot with drainage holes.
- Use a high-quality, well-draining potting mix.
- Water more frequently than in-ground plantings, as containers dry out faster.
13. Encouraging Pollinators To attract more bees, butterflies, and other pollinators:
- Avoid chemical pesticides.
- Plant in clusters to make the flowers more noticeable to pollinators.
14. Cutting for Floral Arrangements Coreopsis UpTick Yellow & Red’s blooms are perfect for fresh-cut arrangements. To enjoy indoors:
- Cut stems early in the morning when flowers are fully open.
- Place stems in water immediately for the best vase life.
With its vivid color, extended blooming season, and easy-care requirements, Coreopsis UpTick Yellow & Red is a delightful addition to any garden. By following these simple growing tips, you’ll enjoy a flourishing display of cheerful yellow and red blooms that brighten your landscape and attract pollinators all season long.
