How to Improve Your Garden's Soil Quality

Maximilian Sunflower

Maximilian Sunflower is a tall, native perennial with bright yellow, daisy-like flowers and narrow leaves. It often forms impressive colonies and attracts pollinators in late summer and fall. Sunflowers are remarkable and versatile plants that offer a range of benefits when used in landscaping. Their vibrant color and adaptability can add aesthetic value and functional advantages to various outdoor spaces. The Maximilian Sunflower is a radiant North American perennial known for its impressive stature and vibrant yellow hue. With a propensity to form dense colonies, these stunningly dynamic plants provide rich visual appeal to any landscape or garden. Their sublime and livening presence innately offers rich enchantment for the gaze of onlookers. Maximilian Sunflower perennial grows to a height of 3-10 feet with slender stalks and narrow leaves with bright yellow flowers that are excellent for attracting pollinators. These perennials bloom after most other perennials stop blooming later in summer into early fall. The Latin name for this vibrant plant is helianthus maximiliani. Maximillian Sunflower (Helianthus maximiliani) Has Vibrant Yellow Blooms  The blooms are brilliant yellow and have many petals alongside a disk-shaped cone. These plants are native to the United States in many regions, and they are so hardy that they can grow even near roadways, prairies, and open fields. Maximilian Sunflowers are sustainability-friendly and promote birds, bees, and monarchs as open pollinators. They are also super low maintenance and seldom need fertilizers or water in areas with adequate rainfall. It's a super hardy wildflower perennial with rough edges, displaying its durability and simplicity of appearance as well. It can tolerate drought conditions and open sunlight. Birds and insects feast on the seeds inside the plant's conehead, making it an excellent source of a good supply without messy bird feeders or buying bird seeds. It is highly sustainable, hardy, and thrives in various soil types, making it one of the best, most vibrant, and hardiest complete sun plants. TN Nursery offers blooming age, bare root perennials at a fraction of the cost of potted plants. Why buy a container and a handful of soil and pay three prices when you can buy the plant bareroot and have the same thing shipped to your door at a fraction of the cost? Maximilian Sunflower Gets Very Tall These gorgeous natural creations intrinsically reach toward the sky. Standing erect, they often get a looming height of around 10 feet. The towering beauties possess uniquely slender stems decorated with long lance-shaped leaves. Underneath the flower head, dark green phyllaries stick straight out before subtly curling at the tips. The bright golden petals delightfully evoke luminescent rays of sunshine. A jagged alternation pattern creates intricate layers of pleasing asymmetry. Their wispiness embodies an illustrative quality that summons a beatific repose. This flower’s center is packed with circular bronze florets. These discs often showcase a fractalized pattern that is simply mesmerizing. Meanwhile, the circumference is embedded with sleek light-yellow florets that create a glorious juxtaposition. Their relatively late blooming period is pleasant in summer and early fall. Thus, they can become the cornerstone of any idyllic scenery. Unlike many other growths from the same genus, these sunflower stems can support several clusters. As a result, these durable plants make for a divine ornamental selection with downright transformative effects on the landscape. Wildlife also likes this flower. Its abundance of nectar is considered irresistible to local pollinators, so it is often associated with a thriving ecosystem of bees and butterflies. Later in their flowering stage, the seeds occasionally attract a diverse ornithological scene, much to the delight of birdwatchers. Maximilian Sunflower derives its namesake from Prince of Wied-Neuwied. The famed German explorer first came upon these magnificent flowers during his North American expeditions, and they were dubbed Helianthus in his honor. It is a suitable title, especially since any outdoor environment is lucky to be bestowed with these golden gems. They are a native perennial coveted for their height, versatility, and blazing yellow hues. It's easy to grow even if you have little gardening experience. The following post concerns this gorgeous bloomer and how it can add life to your outdoor spaces. What Does It Look Like?  People often hear "sunflower" and think of a bloom with a black central disc surrounded by blazing yellow petals. And while they share some characteristics with common sunflowers, there are some distinctions. For instance, their central disc is smaller than a typical sunflower and does not contain blackened florets.  Instead, the hub of the Maximilian Sunflower is populated by clusters of tiny, yellow florets that provide sustenance for pollinators. So, their entire bloom is varying shades of yellow. One thing they share with its more common sunflower relative is height. They can grow to a height of 10 feet!  The flower is supported by a long, narrow stem covered in coarse hairs. Alternate, blade-shaped leaves adorn the towering stem, growing as high as just under the flower bloom. The proximity of the green leaves to the actual flower provides a stunning juxtaposition of natural color evocative of the sun setting over verdant hills. Their conehead is filled with intricate patterns of bronze to bright yellow florets. The mesmerizing structure of these tiny florets belies the mostly uniform layers of petals that envelope them. The florets produce seeds that are a food source for various bird species.  It is also unique among its genus because one stem can support a cluster of flowers instead of just one. Naturally, they grow dense and can colonize very quickly if allowed to. This makes them a good option for filling a large area with golden hues. However, if you have limited space to work with, the multi-flower growths of the slender stems still allow for a radiant burst of color in tight spaces.  Blooms of them are typically 5 inches in diameter, with a central disc spreading out to about one inch in diameter.  What Are the Benefits of Them?  They can add a gilded, regal quality to your outdoor spaces, but that's not all they bring. Take a look at the following reasons why people love to grow these plants:  They Support the Local Nectar Bee Population - Bees flock to them because they produce nectar. Moreover, it produces nectar at a time of year when other perennials become barren. So, they are an excellent choice to keep bees returning to your garden late into the season. As if the inherent chroma of the flower weren't enough, it also attracts colorful, nectar butterflies.  Late Blooming- Many add them to their gardens because they bloom into late fall. This unique blooming span makes this flower ideal for maintaining color throughout the year.  Very Tolerant—While it prefers dry to moist soils, it can tolerate many conditions. It's not uncommon for this plant to thrive in loamy or limestone-rich soil. Great for Bird Lovers- The fertile florets of the flower produce seeds late into the season, which attract a wide variety of birds. The flower is a no-brainer if you are an avid bird-watcher or enjoy providing a haven for avian wildlife.  If you need to become more familiar with this perennial, you may have questions about how to grow and maintain them. So, let's address some common questions about this rewarding flower.  Do They Come Back Every Year?  Another way it distinguishes itself from other sunflowers is that it's a perennial—many sunflowers are annuals. It is supported by a hardy rhizome that will produce new growth yearly.  How Tall Do Maximilian Sunflowers Get? They are known for their stature, reaching up to 10 feet. Its blooms stretch more or less upright toward the sky, giving them a stately appeal that contrasts nicely with flowers and plants that grow closer to the ground.  How Do You Plant them?  It needs between 6 and 8 hours of sun per day. Sow the seeds directly into the soil at about half an inch depth. Seeds should be planted in spring. Be sure to leave between 18 and 24 inches between each plant to allow the root system to grow correctly and avoid crowding. Do You Need to Deadhead Them?  Deadheading will keep blooms coming back and keep the plant looking clean. It would help if you deadheaded dying flowers as they appear. Deadheading will also stymie seed production to avoid spreading to other parts of your garden.  Should You Support the Stem of the Maximilian Sunflower They can grow to be very tall. Their stems are naturally skinny, so you may need to support them with stakes. If you see the plant start to bend or sag, or if you live in an area that experiences high winds, helping the stems with stakes may be necessary. Overly rich soil may also promote hardy blooms with weak stems. If you notice that yours are arching before they bloom, you may need to amend the soil to make it less fertile.  TN Nursery is your source for many native species, from lush ferns to pollinating perennials. We ship nursery-nourished plants that can go straight into your soil right to your door. There is no hassle, and with our one-year guarantee, there is no risk. Place an order for your favorite plants today! What are Maximilian sunflowers Maximilian sunflower is a perennial plant, tall and has cheerful yellow flowers. It is valued as an ornamental plant for its tolerances, which provide height and color to gardens from late summer until the fall.  How do I care for Maximilian sunflowers?  These types of sunflowers are easy to grow and very hardy; they prefer full sun and well-drained soil. They are drought-tolerant and can last with minimal watering.  Are Maximilian sunflowers good for pollinators Their colorful flowers attract bees, butterflies, and other pollination insects, making them a good choice for supporting local ecosystems.  Do Maximilian sunflowers spread Maximilian sunflowers reproduce from rhizomes and can quickly fill up an area with vibrant blooms. Thinning or dividing on a regular basis is good to help maintain their health and size.  Can I grow Maximilian sunflowers in small spaces They can reach 8 ft in height. However, they can still do well in small spaces if pruned. Due to their vertical growth pattern, the plants are perfect for the creation of vertical accents in compact gardens.

Blanket Flower

Blanket Flower is a perennial wildflower known for its vibrant, daisy-like blooms with red or yellow petals and dark center disks. Often found in prairies and gardens, it attracts pollinators and adds color to landscapes. This plant is the perfect choice when craving warmth. This radiant wildflower with an extended blooming season will light up your garden with a kaleidoscope of glowing colors.  Blanket Flower (Gaillardia aristata) Thrives In Drought and Full Sun Blanket Flower, or Gaillardia, is a sun-loving perennial with stunning two-toned daisy-like blooms. The name "Blanket Flower" interestingly comes from its warm yet vibrant red and yellow blooms, which are similar to the blankets Native Americans make.  This wildflower plant belongs to the Asteraceae (daisy) family and is native to North and South America. It is commonly found in Arizona, California, Arkansas, Indiana, Iowa, and Colorado. Blanket Flowers Resembles Daisy Perennials While it may resemble a daisy, blanket flowers are related to sunflowers and brighten up the dullest landscapes. The plant is usually paired with other drought-tolerant plants and showy grass to enhance the visual interest of the entire landscape. Moreover, blanket flowers for sale come in various warm shades and a few fabulous shades, making them a statement piece in the garden. Features of Blanket Flower Plant The plant grows best in total sun exposure, sandy areas, and poor soil. The poorer the soil, the more blooms it will grow.  The blanket flower features blooms in various colors, such as orange, purple, red, yellow, and White. Depending on the season, the foliage can be either blue-green or gray-silver.  This ornamental plant can reach 1-3 feet in height and 1-2 feet in width. Water the plant every other day during the first growing period until you see flowers. Once established, it's easy to care for and does not require regular watering to stay alive.  The Blanket flower is an ecosystem booster, so it loves pollinators, birds, and other wildlife Though people with sensitive skin may experience skin irritation, the plant is non-toxic to humans and animals. This vibrant perennial pairs well with low-maintenance and drought-tolerant perennials, like Butterfly Weed, Yarrow, and Daylily. So, along with blanket flower plants for sale, check out other companion plants at T.N. Nursery.  How Long Does A Blanket Flower Live  Blanket flowers live approximately 2 to 3 years in optimal climates and conditions. However, they self-seed and germinated every year and manifested their presence around the garden.  Why are they called Blanket Flower  They are named so due to the resemblance of their multi-colored and beautiful flowers to a patterned blanket. The flowers have lush reds, oranges, and yellows, providing a warm, bright view all through the season.  Does Blanket Flower Multiply  Indeed, blanket flowers reproduce both by seeds and by rhizomes. They can form larger clusters in time, giving the garden excellent bloom spots more often.  Does Blanket Flower Need To Be Deadheaded  Deadheading is not mandatory for growing blanket flowers, but this practice promotes more blooms and keeps the plants neat. Blanket flowers grow in well-drained soils and prefer minimal fertilization. During spring, you should only apply a small portion of a balanced fertilizer to encourage growth. Too much fertilizer may hamper the bright blooms.

Wisteria

The Wisteria Vine is a highly fragrant woody trailing plant known for its cascading clusters of fragrant, pea-like flowers in lavender colors, often grown on pergolas, trellises, and arbors for its ornamental. They are renowned for their stunning beauty and hold great value in landscaping due to their numerous attributes. The Stunning flowers of The Wisteria Vine (Wisteria frutescens) This beautiful Wisteria Sinensis is a vine-covered in pale purple flowers and bright green leaves. Its stems create woody plants that can either twist together to create a trunk-like appearance or elongate to twine around supports. The plant can expand up to 20 to 35 feet in length, and it can support multiple plants that branch out from the central stem. Wisteria Vine is a highly fragrant woody plant known for its cascading clusters of lavender-colored, pea-like flowers. It is often grown on pergolas, trellises, and arbors. Enjoy the Fragrant Blooms Of Wisteria Vine The characteristic flowers of this plant dangle in long strings of blossoms all over the plant. Clusters around 12 inches hang off the plant and hold rows of small, regularly spaced blooms. Individual flowers feature a large petal at the top and two smaller petals cupped together around a center with yellow-green stamens. Flower petals can be all shades of purple and white, and some may have a bluish or pinkish tint. It's common for the flower clusters to have a pleasant, ombre appearance, with flowers at the tip of the cluster being a much darker shade of purple. Wisteria Vine Is Flexible  Since this plant's flexibility can twist into many shapes, it's a highly versatile landscaping option. Some people prefer to keep their plant as a tree or bush. It can be a charming accent that produces clusters of fragrant flowers wherever you place it. You can also set this plant near a supportive trellis or wall if you want a genuinely eye-catching landscaping structure. Especially when planted in bunches, you can create stunning arcs, tunnels, ceilings, and walls of beautiful purple flowers. Wisteria Vine Has Stunning Foliage Wisteria Vine usually blooms around early May before the plant has even started to sprout leaves. After having a lush coat of nothing but purple blossoms for a while, the plant begins to produce small, lime-green leaves that blend beautifully with the flowers. The flowers leave in summer, and the leaves gradually darken to a rich, emerald green. Once the weather cools, the leaves turn a brilliant yellow before falling away to reveal the fascinating twists and loops of the underlying branches. How quickly does wisteria grow Wisteria is a vine that grows quickly. The vine may grow up to 10 feet or more each year. With pruning and proper care, it can beautify fences, pergolas, or trellises.  When does wisteria bloom?  Wisteria usually bears flowers in spring. It produces cascading clusters of purple, blue, or white. Upon establishment, they appear annually and provide bright colors and pleasant fragrances in your garden.  Does wisteria require a lot of maintenance Wisteria is not high maintenance, but it benefits from occasional pruning to make it flower and also control its growth.  Can wisteria grow in containers Yes, you can grow wisteria in containers. Ensure you provide support and pruning. This makes it ideal to be planted in the patios or limited space.  Is wisteria suitable for all climates?  Wisteria is flexible and can be cultivated in different climate zones. It is a resilient plant, which makes it ideal for gardeners from any location.

Hosta

Hostas are shade-loving perennials known for their large, heart-shaped, and often variegated leaves and spikes of bell-shaped flowers, making them popular choices for garden borders and landscaping in low-light areas. They are renowned for their lush foliage and graceful appearance, which offer many benefits when incorporated into landscaping designs. These versatile perennials have gained popularity for their ability to enhance outdoor spaces with their aesthetic appeal, adaptability, and ease of maintenance. Hosta is an attractive herbaceous plant that can grow up to 4 feet in height, although a height of 18 inches is more common. There are several species of them, each with slight differences in leaf color. Each species has a different bloom, making exceptional focal points in any garden. Hosta (Plantain lilies) Has Stunning Leaves The type seen most commonly in the United States is the "Keepsake." The charming green leaves ringed with yellow accents are popular because of their hardiness in different climates and the beautiful vistas they create in a garden. Sometimes, the lighter color rings are shades of white rather than yellow, but they don't lose any eye-catching effects. They have leaves of a single color, usually dark green. All their leaves are sturdy and ribbed, even if they're longer and tapered rather than cheerfully oval. Compliment Your Landscape With Hostas Most versions have pretty purple or white flowers that bloom in the early summer through the beginning of fall. The flower buds form in the middle of spring and are generally the same color as the flowers. Even when they're just budding, they are beautiful plants that complement everything else in the garden. Once the buds bloom, the flowers form trumpet, bell, or elongated pendulous shapes. Only one version of these flowers has a strong scent, called the "August Lily." It's a shy flower, blooming in the evening and closing up again by morning, so it'll brighten up any garden when the sun goes down. Hosta Does Great With Other Plants When they are surrounded by flowers of similar colors, such as California bluebells for the species with violet flowers or tuberose for the white-flowered species, it creates a breathtaking effect. Alternating the various species in concentric rings would increase their appeal and let them truly shine. This Hosta Is Good for Pollinators Hosta blooms, such as bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds, are essential for pollinators. The flowers provide nectar, and the leaves collect dew in the mornings, allowing these little creatures to drink while visiting the garden. What conditions do hostas thrive in? These plants grow in partial shade or full shade, hence suitable for gardens that may offer limited sunlight. Hostas grow well in well-draining and nutrient-filled soils and should be watered consistently, especially during dry periods.  How do I care for hostas in winter?  Hostas are perennials and go dormant in winter. Prune dead foliage in the fall and then put a layer of mulch to protect the roots from freezing.  Do hostas come in different sizes and colors?  Hostas come in all sorts of sizes, from small miniatures to large sprawling plants. Their foliage comprises beautiful green, blue and gold that may have different patterns.  How can I keep slugs and pests away from my hostas?  Snails or slugs are common enemies for the hostas. You can use eggshells or diatomaceous earth around the base. You can also reduce pest problems by maintaining a clean environment and ensuring good air circulation in the garden.  Can hostas be grown in containers?  Hostas are perfect for container gardening and, therefore, can be placed on the patio or in other small spaces. It is advisable to plant the flower in a pot with a good drainage hole; water it frequently and place it in a shaded area.