Birds and Blooms Extra – September 01, 2019

SEPTEMBER EXTRA 2019 birdsandblooms.com 7

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GARDEN WITH A PURPOSE

Bicoloredblanketflowersprovide

Gaillardia spp., Zones 3 to 10

Few plants offer a bright

sunburst of color quite like

blanket flower. Emerging in

late spring, the blooms come

in a combination of yellow,

orange, red and maroon and

stick around until September.

It tolerates dry conditions,

but does poorly in clay soil.

Rabbits usually give it a pass.

Blanket Flower Attracts:

Light needs: Full sun.

Size: 2 to 3 feet tall.

Grown for: An explosion of

color and drought tolerance.

Foliage: Long gray-green leaves.

Cultivars to try: Gallo Red’s

deep red-orange flowers are a

dramatic magnet for butterflies.

For something a little sunnier,

try cheery Mesa Yellow. Arizona

Sun also offers classic bicolor.

WALTERS GARDENS, INC

BIRD

BENEFITS

As fall approaches,

leave flower stalks and

seed heads standing to help

the plant become more

winter hardy. Bonus:

Goldfinches snack

on the seeds.

Arizona Sun

blanket flower