Cone-Fections™ Southern Belle Echinacea Plant

Our Cone-Fections™ Southern Belle Echinacea Plant was first introduced in 2012 and is guaranteed to be the belle of many perennial cutting gardens. A fully double reddish-pink pom-pom center sits atop pink-magenta rays, creating a wonderfully saucy-looking and very striking bicolored blossom! Regularly cut these coneflowers for vases or for tea so as to encourage further blooming. Known to attract butterflies and bees, this plant is very heat tolerant. As fall approaches, leave some of the spent blossoms on the plants to provide sustenance for migrating and wintering birds. You will love everything about this southern belle!

Planting Instructions:

• - Plant in spring or fall for best results
• - Space plants 18-24 inches apart to allow for proper growth and air circulation

Soil Preparation:

• - Ideal soil pH: 6.0-7.0
• - Prefers well-drained soil, tolerates poor or sandy soils

Watering Specifics:

• - Water regularly until established, allowing soil to dry out between waterings
• - Once mature, Echinacea is drought-tolerant and requires minimal watering

Fertilizer Type:

• - Apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring if soil fertility is low
• - Excessive fertilizing can lead to leggy growth; minimal feeding is best

Pruning and Training:

• - Deadhead spent flowers to encourage more blooms, but leave some seed heads for winter interest and wildlife
• - Cut back in late fall or early spring to clean up old growth

Additional Pest Management:

• - Echinacea is generally pest and disease resistant, but occasionally monitor for aphids or leaf miners
• - Ensure good air circulation to prevent any fungal issues