Rudbeckia Autumn Pine

300 seeds

How to Seed Rudbeckia ‘Autumn Pine’ (Rudbeckia hirta)

1. Best Time to Sow (Gulf Region):

   • Outdoors: From October to February, when temperatures are mild (15–25°C / 59–77°F).

   • Indoors or nursery trays: From December to February for transplanting in early spring.

   • Avoid sowing from April to September, as high Gulf heat hinders germination and causes weak growth.

2. Sowing Depth:
   Sow seeds on the soil surface and press lightly — do not cover, as light helps germination.
   Keep the soil evenly moist using a fine mist until seedlings appear.

3. Soil:
   Prefers well-drained, fertile soil enriched with organic matter.
   Ideal Gulf mix: 40% garden soil + 30% peat moss + 20% perlite + 10% compost.
   Avoid heavy or compacted soils that retain excess moisture.

4. Light & Temperature:

   • Germination temperature: 20–25°C (68–77°F).

   • Requires bright light or full sun for strong, healthy growth.

   • In the Gulf, full morning sun and light afternoon shade help protect against intense heat.

5. Germination Time:
   Seeds germinate in 10–20 days under warm, moist conditions.

6. Transplanting:

   • When seedlings reach 8–10 cm tall, transplant carefully to beds or pots.

   • Space plants 25–30 cm apart for bushy, compact growth.

   • Harden seedlings before exposing them to full sun.

7. Growing Tips for Gulf Climate:

   • Sunlight: Prefers full sun but tolerates light afternoon shade.

   • Watering: Water regularly but moderately; keep the soil moist but not soggy.

   • Feeding: Use a balanced liquid fertilizer every 3–4 weeks during growth and blooming.

   • Maintenance: Remove faded blooms to encourage continuous flowering.

   • The ‘Autumn Pine’ variety produces rich golden-yellow petals with dark brown centers, perfect for borders, garden beds, and pots.

   • Blooms from late winter through early summer in the Gulf region.