Windflowers are a diverse group of colorfully flowering perennials that belong to the buttercup or crowfoot family. Generally, windflower care depends on whether the variety belongs to the spring- or fall-flowering variety. Windflowers thrive in a well-draining soil that is constantly damp, but will suffer when waterlogged.
How To Tell If Windflower Needs Watered
The best way to tell if windflowers require water is to check the soil between watering's. When the soil/growing medium is dry to the touch and does not stick to your finger, then it is time to water. In hot or dry climates windflowers may require watering more frequently. Do not over-water windflowers; waterlogging your windflowers may cause the corm/root clump to rot.
The diversity of the windflower family means there are certain varieties with particular needs. For example, the variety A. nemorosa dies back to the ground in midsummer and does not require water until regrowth begins in the fall.
How Often To Water Windflowers
After planting fall-blooming windflowers in the spring, it is best to check the soil around the plants 2-3 times per week to ensure there is adequate moisture (especially in drier climates or if there have not been any spring rains). For spring blooming windflowers, little care is usually required until spring when plants begin to emerge. However, if your climate is dry in the winter and there is no snow or rain, then it will be important to check soil moisture every 3-4 weeks and lightly water if dry.
Actively growing and established windflowers thrive in a consistently moist soil substrate, so the frequency you will need to water depends upon your climate (windflowers prefer cooler climates) and how often it rains. In hotter climates with little rain, it will be crucial to check the soil every 3-5 days. You cannot make up for windflowers drying out by over-watering; it will only encourage rot and cause more long-term health issues for the plant.
If you are growing windflowers in containers, it is important to make sure your pot has drainage holes in the bottom and the substrate is high in organic matter but well draining. Check the top inch of substrate once a week for dryness (every 3-5 days in hotter/drier climates).
Best Time To Water Windflowers
Like most plants, it is best to water in the mornings, to allow leaves/foliage adequate time to dry before night when moisture may lead to bacterial and fungal issues.
When spring blooming windflowers require supplemental water in winter (which should not be very often unless you live in a very dry climate), it is best to choose the warmest day in the upcoming forecast to avoid issues with water freezing around the plant.
How to Water Windflowers
Step 1 - Check the Soil
Use your finger to probe the top inch of the soil. If the soil does not stick to your finger and feels dry to the touch, then it is time to water. If the soil does feel moist, then check again in 1-2 days.
Step 2 - Slowly Water the Base of the Plant
It is important to avoid drowning windflowers. The best way to ensure the soil is moist, but not waterlogged is to slowly water to allow the soil to absorb as much water as possible. Either use a hose, watering can, or irrigation system and slowly apply water to the base of the plant.
Step 3 - Keep Checking the Soil
Check the soil 3-5 days after you water to ensure the soil dries between watering, but does not completely dry out and deprive the windflowers of moisture.
Windflower Watering Tips
- Maintaining even moisture is best
- Avoid water-logging to prevent issues with rot
- In warm/dry climates, more frequent watering is necessary
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Author Chris Link - Published 07-21-2022 |