How to Sow Red Rose Achillea Seeds

Red Rose Achillea (Achillea Millefolium Rubra) is a hardy perennial that produces stunning upright red blooms throughout the summer. This resilient plant is known for its tolerance to heat, drought, and poor soils, making it an ideal choice for UK gardens. Perfect for borders, cottage gardens, and wildflower meadows, Achillea attracts pollinators like bees and butterflies, while offering excellent blooms for fresh or dried flower arrangements. A naturally spreading plant, red rose achillea will thrive in most soil conditions once established. As a UK native, it carries a heavy resilience to varied British weather conditions. During winter time, Achillea will become dormant, with no additional care needed. The following season, Achillea will bloom again. This makes it one of the easiest plants to care for.

When to Sow

Providing sufficient germination temperatures and care, red rose achillea seeds can be sown and grown at any time of the year.

• Outdoors: Sow directly outdoors from March to May, once the risk of frost has passed.
• Indoors: Seeds can be started indoors in early spring (February-March) for transplanting outdoors once seedlings are established and the weather warms up.
• Germination Period: Achillea seeds generally germinate within 14-21 days at temperatures between 18-22°C. Warmer temperatures and consistent moisture will speed up the process.

Preparing the Soil and Location

• Soil Type: Achillea thrives in well-drained soil, whether sandy, loamy, or even poor-quality soil. Avoid waterlogged or excessively rich soils, as this can lead to overly leggy growth.
• Sunlight: Full sun is essential for optimal flowering. Select a sunny spot in your garden where the plants can receive at least 6 hours of sunlight daily.
• Soil Preparation: Rake the soil lightly to create a fine tilth and ensure good drainage. For direct sowing, scatter seeds thinly on the surface.
• Sowing Depth: Achillea seeds need light to germinate, so do not cover the seeds. Gently press them into the soil to ensure good seed-to-soil contact.
• Spacing: Thin seedlings to about 30 cm (12 inches) apart to allow for proper air circulation and plant development.
• Watering: Water lightly after sowing, keeping the soil moist but not waterlogged during the germination period.

Caring for Red Rose Achillea Plants in the UK

• Watering: Once established, Achillea is drought-tolerant. Water sparingly, especially during dry periods, and avoid overwatering.
• Deadheading: To encourage continuous blooms, regularly deadhead spent flowers. This will prolong the flowering season and prevent self-seeding.
• Fertilising: These plants are not heavy feeders. A light application of a balanced fertiliser in early spring will support growth, but avoid over-fertilising.
• Dividing: Divide clumps every 3-4 years in early spring to maintain plant vigour and prevent overcrowding.

Growing Height and Spread

• Height: Red Rose Achillea grows up to 60 cm (24 inches) tall.
• Spread: Each plant will spread about 30-40 cm (12-16 inches), forming a dense, mat-like habit.

Commonly Asked Questions About Red Achillea

1. Can I grow Achillea indoors?

You can start Achillea seeds indoors in early spring. Once seedlings are large enough to handle, transplant them outdoors in a sunny spot after the last frost.

2. Is Achillea a perennial in the UK?

Yes, Achillea is a hardy perennial in the UK, returning each year and becoming dormant during the winter months before blooming again in the summer.

3. How long does it take for Achillea to flower?

Achillea will begin flowering in its first summer, typically 12-14 weeks after sowing, depending on growing conditions.

4. What type of soil is best for Achillea?

Achillea thrives in well-drained soil and can tolerate poor, sandy, or loamy soils. It’s an ideal plant for areas with less fertile soil.

5. How do I encourage more blooms?

Regular deadheading of spent flowers will encourage the plant to produce more blooms. Additionally, ensuring the plant has plenty of sunlight will help maximise flowering.

6. Can Achillea spread in the garden?

Yes, Achillea can spread if left to self-seed. If you prefer to control its spread, regularly deadhead and divide the plants every 3-4 years.

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