Growing Sneezeweed
Sneezeweed boasts bold flowers and thrives in damp, marshy areas that are often challenging to other plants. The daisy-like flowers fit into a cottage-theme landscape and come in shades or combinations of golden yellow, orange, deep red, and brown. The flowers attract butterflies and other pollinators during the summer and into fall. Also known as Helenium autumnale, this low-profile perennial is native to North America and commonly grows in damp woodlands or meadows. It is hardy in zones 3 through 8.
Planting Sneezeweed
Select a planting site that receives full sun because Sneezeweed can become leggy without at least six hours of direct sunlight. It performs best in rich, moist, acidic soil. Space plants so air can circulate around the leaves. Sneezeweed can handle hot and humid weather, but airflow is essential to prevent mildew. Apply a thick layer of mulch to retain moisture and keep the roots cool.
Watering Sneezeweed
Sneezeweed prefers damp conditions, so keep the soil moist. Soggy conditions are harmful, so do not water if the soil is still wet. If the location is marsh-like, Sneezeweed may not require supplemental watering. Water during a dry spell if the ground dries out.
Fertilizing Sneezeweed
Fertilize Sneezeweed each spring using balanced plant food. An annual feeding supports growth and plenty of blooms. Plants grown in fertile soil do not need fertilizer and may become leggy in response to too much nitrogen.
Pruning Sneezeweed
Pinch growth in the spring to encourage branching and a bushy form. Remove flowers as they fade to redirect energy into new blooms and extend the bloom cycle. Trim the flower stems to the foliage level when the blooms fade. Remove dead or damaged greenery in the spring before new growth emerges.
Caring For Sneezeweed in Pots
Container-grown plants need full sunlight and regular water. Keep the potting mix damp but not soggy. During continuously hot, dry weather, water potted Sneezeweed daily. Use a good-quality potting mix and a container with drainage holes. Repot Sneezeweed in the spring if the plant shows signs of being root-bound.
Winter Care For Sneezeweed
Landscape Sneezeweed plants do not need special winter care. Remove dead or damaged growth by late winter or early spring. Container-grown plants can stay outside in the warm reaches of their growing range. Potted plants grown in areas with chilly winter weather will need to be relocated to a garage or shed, or you can partially bury the container, so the ground can protect the roots from cold temperatures.
Sources: "Helenium autumnale (Common sneezeweed)." Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center. wildflower.org