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Plant of the Week: Goldenrod


          Goldenrod thrives in the wild.

Many gardeners don’t just plant flowers for their looks, but for their other capabilities as well. Some perennials excel at repelling pests in the garden while looking beautiful amongst the others at the same time. Solidago flowers, also known as Goldenrod, are one of these plants. Their flowers are often compared to fireworks, as they present themselves in an explosive display of color. They are easy to maintain, and perfect for any fall flower garden.

European gardeners were planting Goldenrod long before gardeners in North America, who took awhile to become accustomed to growing wildflowers in their yards. The properties in Goldenrod made it an ideal herbal cleanser for the kidney, and it became a popular form of healing in early European medicine. Goldenrod didn’t become a common show flower in gardens across the United States until thirty years ago. Now, they’re frequently seen around late summer into early fall, and they add eye-pleasing splashes of color to yards across the country. Don’t hesitate-- you can grow them in your own garden this season with little hassle and effort.

Goldenrod Q&A

1. How do I begin to plant Goldenrod in my yard or garden?

Once you pick out a variety to suit your yard or garden, find a sunny spot to plant the Goldenrod where it will have to deal with little shade. Like most perennials, Goldenrod like well-drained soil (pH level between 5.0 and 7.0). Nothing more than a light organic fertilizer is necessary to encourage its growth.

2. How often should I water my Goldenrod?

Water your Goldenrod lightly on a daily basis. They enjoy moist soil, but try not to overwater. If you don’t want to water your Goldenrod as frequently, feel free to place mulch around the base of the plant. This will prevent weeds from sprouting up as well.

3. Is there a way to keep Goldenrod from becoming invasive?

Goldenrod is notorious for becoming invasive because it is a wildflower. In order to keep this from happening, pick a variety that only grows to no more than two feet tall. When spacing your Goldenrod, keep them at least 12” a part.

4. Are Goldenrod prone to any pests or disease?

Goldenrod is relatively immune to pests and diseases because of its properties as a wildflower. They will attract a variety of honeybees to your garden, however, but this will only help with pollination.

5. How can I display Goldenrod in my home?

Goldenrod is ideal when it’s dried. Display it with other dried perennials in a vase, preferably with other flowers that have eye-popping colors. They make a perfect fall accent to any kitchen or dining area.

As we head later into autumn, the weather is getting colder and hibernation is calling for most plants. This is the last Plant of the Week of the season, and I look forward to returning in early spring with more tips and tricks to gardening. Thank you for reading, and look out for more articles on green news and sustainable living.

For more info: Visit this site for tips and hints on goldenrod.