Secret™ Joy Echinacea Plant

The new for 2011 Secret™ Joy Echinacea Plant seems to have been bred to make you smile! As the disc emerges it is the most luscious spring green with hints of swirling orange. Then, as the double cone starts to take shape, the green and orange continue to fade while the most pleasing antique yellow takes its place, puffed up in pure joy. Even the rays get in the game, being split at the tip for a happy, frilly appearance. Known to attract butterflies, this heat resistant Coneflower has strong stems and a wonderful fragrance-the absolute perfect combination for your garden and cut flower arrangements!

Our Echinacea Plants are grown with care and without harmful pesticides, making them a safe and beneficial addition to your garden. Guaranteed to arrive healthy and ready to thrive!

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

Blooming Indicators:

• - Blooms from midsummer to early fall with large, daisy-like flowers in shades of pink, purple, or white

Temperature Tolerance:

• - Hardy in USDA zones 3-9, tolerates light frost and heat

Companion Plants for Echinacea:

• - Rudbeckia: Complements Echinacea’s bright blooms with yellow daisy-like flowers
• - Salvia: Adds vertical spikes of blue or purple that pair well with Echinacea’s bold colors
• - Penstemon: Provides a contrasting texture with its tubular blooms
• - Lavender: Offers a fragrant, drought-tolerant partner that blends beautifully with Echinacea
• - Achillea: Pairs well with Echinacea’s bright flowers while attracting pollinators