Coreopsis Mayfields Giant

Growing Coreopsis from Seed 

Germination:

• 7–30 days at 12–21°C.
• Light aids germination, press seeds onto soil and lightly cover. 

---

Soil & Site 

 Soil:

• Well drained, sandy or loamy soil enriched with compost.
• Avoid waterlogged conditions. 

 Sun:

• Full sun (6+ hours daily). 

---

Sowing Methods 

 Direct Sowing:

• Scatter seeds 3 mm deep, spacing 30 cm

 Seedlings:

• Start indoors 6 weeks before last frost.
• Transplant when 5 – 10cm tall. 

---

Care Tips 

 Watering:

• Drought tolerant once established.
• Water seedlings regularly.
• Let soil dry 10 cm deep between watering. 

 Fertiliser:

• Minimal needs. Apply compost at planting.
• Use potassium rich fertiliser for poor soils. 

 Pruning:

• Deadhead to prolong blooms.
• Cut back perennials in winter. 

---

Pests & Diseases 

 Aphids/Slugs:

• Spray with neem oil or handpick. 

 Fungal Issues:

• Avoid overhead watering. Treat with organic fungicides for powdery mildew. 

---

Companion Planting Guide 

Coreopsis attracts pollinators (bees, butterflies) and beneficial insects (hoverflies, parasitic wasps), making it ideal for ecofriendly gardens. 

Best Companions: 

• Pollinator Magnets: Echinacea, Rudbeckia, Gaillardia. 
• Structural Contrast: Ornamental grasses, Lavender. 
• Vegetable Garden Allies: Tomatoes (repel pests), Cucumbers (improved pollination). 

Avoid Planting With 

• Invasive species or plants requiring heavy watering (e.g., mint). 

Wildflower Meadows 

• Coreopsis pairs well with native Australian wildflowers like Brachyscome or Everlasting Daisies for low maintenance displays. 

---

Seed Saving Guide 

When to Harvest:

• Collect seed heads in late summer/autumn when dry and brown.
• Birds love the seeds, so harvest promptly. 

Steps: 

• Dry Heads: Cut stems and hang upside down in a cool, dry place. 
• Extract Seeds: Crush heads over a bowl; separate seeds from chaff. 
• Storage: Store in airtight containers in a dark, dry spot.
• Seeds remain viable for 1–2 years. 

---