Cultivating Flora

How Much Space to Leave Between Each Yarrow Plant

Yarrow (Achillea millefolium) is a perennial plant that is native to Europe and Asia. It belongs to the Asteraceae family and is known for its delicate, fern-like foliage and clusters of small, daisy-like flowers. Yarrow is a hardy plant that can tolerate a wide range of growing conditions and is often used in gardens as a border or ground cover. When planting yarrow, it’s important to consider the spacing between each plant to ensure they have enough room to grow and thrive.

Factors to Consider

When determining how much space to leave between each yarrow plant, there are several factors to consider:

Mature Size

Yarrow can grow up to 3 feet tall and spread up to 2 feet wide. The mature size of the plant will determine how much space you need to leave between each plant.

Soil Type

Yarrow can grow in a variety of soil types but prefers well-draining soil. If your soil is heavy and clay-like, you may need to leave more space between plants to ensure proper drainage.

Light Requirements

Yarrow prefers full sun but can also tolerate partial shade. If you’re planting in partial shade, you may need to leave more space between plants to ensure they have enough room to spread out and receive adequate sunlight.

Purpose of Planting

If you’re planting yarrow as a border or ground cover, you may want to leave less space between plants to create a dense, full look. However, if you’re planting yarrow as a specimen plant or focal point in your garden, you may want to leave more space between plants to allow each one to stand out on its own.

Recommended Spacing

Based on the factors above, the recommended spacing for yarrow plants is:

It’s important to note that these are general guidelines and may vary depending on the specific variety of yarrow you’re planting and the growing conditions in your garden.

Planting Tips

When planting yarrow, it’s important to follow these tips to ensure your plants have the best chance of thriving:

FAQ

Q: Can I plant yarrow in containers?

A: Yes, yarrow can be grown in containers as long as the container is large enough to accommodate the mature size of the plant and has adequate drainage.

Q: How do I propagate yarrow?

A: Yarrow can be propagated by division or stem cuttings. To propagate by division, dig up an established plant and separate it into smaller sections, each with its own root system. To propagate by stem cuttings, select a healthy stem and cut it just below a node. Remove the leaves from the bottom half of the stem and dip it in rooting hormone before planting in well-draining soil.

Q: Is yarrow deer-resistant?

A: Yes, yarrow is considered deer-resistant due to its strong scent and bitter taste. However, it’s important to note that no plant is completely deer-proof, and hungry deer may still eat yarrow if there’s nothing else available.

Q: Can I grow yarrow from seed?

A: Yes, yarrow can be grown from seed. Sow the seeds in the spring or fall in well-draining soil and keep moist until they germinate. It may take up to 3 weeks for the seeds to germinate.

Q: Are there any pests or diseases that affect yarrow?

A: Yarrow is generally pest and disease-resistant, but it can be susceptible to powdery mildew in humid conditions. To prevent powdery mildew, ensure good air circulation around the plants and avoid overhead watering.

In conclusion, yarrow is a beautiful and hardy plant that can thrive in a variety of growing conditions. When planting yarrow, it’s important to consider the spacing between each plant to ensure they have enough room to grow and thrive. By following these guidelines and tips, you can enjoy a stunning display of yarrow in your garden for years to come.