How to Grow Rudbeckia (UK guide)
Known as Black-Eyed Susan, Rudbeckia is famed for its bold yellow blooms with dark centres. It grows happily in borders and large containers, offering long-lasting colour and easy maintenance.
A cheerful addition to any garden
Rudbeckias are vibrant, easy-care perennials and annuals ideal for sunny borders and containers. These long-flowering plants provide months of colour and support pollinators through summer and into autumn.
For the Bees
Long-lasting blooms, wildlife friendly, low maintenance
How to Grow Rudbeckia from Seed
- 01Fill trays with moist seed compost
- 02Scatter the fine seeds lightly on the surface
- 03Do not cover seeds as they need light to germinate
- 04Place trays in a warm, bright spot at 18–21°C
- 05Once seedlings appear, prick out into small pots when large enough to handle
You will need
- 01Full sun
- 02Moist, well-drained soil
- 03Regular deadheading
- 04Monthly balanced feeding
Grow young rudbeckia plants on in bright, cool conditions to prevent weak growth. Avoid overwatering and ensure good airflow so plants develop strong stems before planting out.
Plant Calendar
Rudbeckia essentials
Full sun
Rudbeckias flower best when planted in a spot receiving at least 6–8 hours of sunlight daily.
Moist, well-drained soil
Ensure soil is consistently moist but not waterlogged for healthy growth and flowering.
Regular deadheading
Remove spent flowers to encourage repeat blooming throughout the season.
Balanced feeding
Apply a general-purpose liquid feed monthly during active growth.
Rudbeckia: FAQs & Common Problems
Rudbeckia FAQs
Deadhead Rudbeckia regularly as flowers fade to encourage continuous blooming from mid-summer into autumn.
Rudbeckia thrives in containers. Use a 30cm (12in) diameter pot with multipurpose compost and ensure good drainage.
Apply a balanced liquid feed once a month during the growing season to support strong growth and prolific flowering.
Rudbeckia is generally trouble-free but may suffer from powdery mildew in dry conditions and occasional aphid infestations.
CONEFLOWERS A favourite flower amongst pollinators and adding structure to the garden.
