Have you ever tried arranging flowers with strawflower branches? They are brilliant and can significantly improve your mood.
Strawflowers are popular for their gorgeous appearance, and it’s fun to see them in the garden every morning.
Fortunately, growing strawflowers is easy. You don’t need to buy them anymore – try growing them at home and start fun DIY projects with this flower.
About Strawflowers
What are Strawflowers?
Scientifically known as Helichrysum bracteatum, strawflowers are also commonly referred to as everlasting flowers.
These annuals typically grow 12 to 36 inches tall, with slender stems and narrow, elongated leaves.
They produce papery flowers in a spectrum of hues, including yellow, orange, red, pink, and white.
Strawflowers thrive in well-drained soil and full sunlight, blooming from late spring to early fall, adding vibrant color and texture to gardens and floral arrangements.
Types of Strawflowers
Cottage Pink Strawflower: Delicate pink blooms, compact growth up to 18 inches.
Purple Red Strawflower: Rich, velvety hues, stands 24 to 30 inches tall.
Golden Yellow Strawflower: Bright, cheerful petals, grows 12 to 24 inches.
Scarlet Strawflower: Intense red blooms, towers at 24 to 36 inches.
Benefits of Strawflowers
Strawflowers are perfect for boutique arrangements due to their longevity when dried, maintaining vibrant colors and shape for extended periods.
They enhance home decor and DIY projects like wreaths, bouquets, or potpourri. They also attract pollinators, supporting local ecosystems.
Additionally, strawflowers possess anti-inflammatory properties, aiding in reducing scars, wounds, skin irritations, and inflammation, potentially offering relief for conditions like arthritis.
Propagation
From Seeds
Sow in spring after frost. Surface sow in moist soil, keep moist in bright light.
Seeds sprout in 7-10 days. Harden seedlings before transplanting outdoors when temperatures stay above 60°F.
From Cuttings
Take 4-inch stem tips in spring or fall. Remove lower leaves, dip in rooting hormone, and plant in moist soil.
Keep warm and lit until they root, then transplant outside.
Transplanting
Wait for overcast days after frost. Transplant carefully into prepared soil.
How to Grow Strawflowers
Preparation
Prepare the soil with well-rotted compost. Strawflowers tolerate poor soil but need good drainage. If you have heavy clay soil, amend it before planting.
Opt for strawflowers from prestigious stores.
How to Grow Strawflowers
Starting Seeds Indoors
Start seeds indoors in early spring. Use modular trays with multi-purpose compost and added perlite for drainage.
Sow several seeds per cell, cover lightly with perlite, and keep moist. Thin seedlings to one per cell once they grow.
Harden off seedlings by placing them outside during the day and bringing them in at night for two weeks before planting outside.
Transplanting Outdoors
Transplant hardened-off seedlings in mid to late spring. Space plants 23-30 cm apart and water well. Continue regular watering for several weeks until established.
Tips:
- Plant strawflowers with herbs like basil and thyme to deter pests and attract pollinators.
- Pair them with sun-loving annuals such as marigolds and zinnias for a vibrant garden.
How to Care for Strawflowers
Soil
Strawflowers prefer sandy or rocky soils with a mildly acidic to neutral pH of 5.5 to 6.5. However, they can grow in various soil types as long as they drain well.
Mulch helps retain soil moisture and regulate temperature. Loosen the soil to a depth of 10 to 12 inches and mix in 3 inches of compost.
Light
Strawflowers flourish in full sun but can tolerate partial shade, though they may bloom less in such conditions. Full sun exposure helps prevent weak, floppy stems.
Water
These drought-tolerant plants can endure a week without water but need regular watering during prolonged dry spells.
Weekly watering, providing about 1 inch of water if there is no rain, keeps the flowers vibrant. Avoid overly soggy soil around the roots.
Fertilizer
Strawflowers are not heavy feeders, but a balanced flower fertilizer applied monthly will ensure steady blooming.
Container-grown strawflowers need more frequent fertilizing, about every two weeks. Follow the label instructions for the correct amounts.
Pruning and Deadheading
When strawflower plants reach about 12 inches tall, pruning the center stalk encourages side branching, resulting in more flowers and stronger stems.
Deadheading, or removing spent flowers, is crucial for continuous blooming. Cut above a leaf node when deadheading to promote more flowers.
Pests and Diseases
Strawflowers are generally pest-resistant but can be affected by aster yellows virus, causing stunted growth and yellowing. Remove any infected plants promptly.
They can also develop downy mildew if there isn’t enough air circulation. Ensure adequate spacing and use well-draining soil to avoid issues like gray mold and rot.
Harvest
To know if strawflowers are ready to harvest, perform the “Wiggle Test.” Grasp the stem 8 inches below the bloom and wiggle it. If the bloom flops, wait until the stem stiffens.
Harvest a few hours after sunrise when the flowers are open enough to see. Cut in the morning when the flowers are dry.
For fresh arrangements, cut when 3 to 4 bract layers have opened.
For drying, cut when 2 to 3 layers of bracts have opened.
Preservation
After harvesting, place strawflower stems in fresh water for a few hours in a cool, dark place to keep them fresh. Then dry strawflowers to preserve for a long time.
Hanging Method
Hang flowers upside down in a warm, dry place out of direct sunlight. The stems may become fragile, but the blooms will stay sturdy.
Floral Wire Method
Pop the bloom off the stem and insert floral wire through the bottom. This method keeps the flower’s shape and structure.
Basket or Bowl Method
Let the blooms dry naturally in a basket or bowl. This is an easy method for small projects.
By following these guidelines, you can successfully grow and enjoy the beauty of strawflowers in your garden and home.
Hi guys! My Name is Javis Spider. founder of this Blog. I come from NY City and I’m keen on writing and discussing Classic cars and Businesses and related information. This Blog is where I share my tips to solve some Business & Finance Related Queries.
