How to Grow Yarrow Plant Outdoors

Yarrow plant, also known as Achillea millefolium, is a versatile and hardy perennial herb that has been used for centuries for medicinal and culinary purposes. It is easy to grow and maintain, making it a great choice for beginner gardeners. In this article, we will guide you on how to grow yarrow plant outdoors.

Choosing the Location

When choosing a location to plant yarrow, it is important to consider the following:

• Sunlight: Yarrow prefers full sunlight but can also tolerate partial shade.
• Soil: Yarrow grows best in well-draining soil that is slightly alkaline or neutral.
• Water: Yarrow does not require much water and can tolerate drought conditions.

Once you have found the perfect location, it’s time to prepare the soil.

Soil Preparation

Before planting yarrow, it is important to prepare the soil. Follow these steps:

1. Clear the area of any weeds or debris.
2. Loosen the soil with a garden fork or tiller.
3. Mix in some compost or aged manure to improve soil fertility.
4. Rake the soil level.

Planting Yarrow

Now that you have prepared the soil, it’s time to plant yarrow. Follow these steps:

1. Dig a hole that is twice the size of the root ball.
2. Place the yarrow plant in the hole and fill it with soil.
3. Water the plant thoroughly.

Care and Maintenance

Yarrow plant requires minimal care and maintenance. Here are some tips:

• Watering: Yarrow does not require much water and can tolerate drought conditions. Water deeply only when the soil is dry to touch.
• Fertilizing: Yarrow does not require much fertilizer, but you can add a balanced fertilizer in spring if necessary.
• Pruning: Deadhead the flowers after blooming to encourage repeat blooming.
• Pests and Diseases: Yarrow is relatively pest and disease-free, but it can be affected by powdery mildew. To prevent this, space plants adequately, avoid overhead watering and remove any infected leaves.

Harvesting

Yarrow leaves and flowers can be harvested throughout the growing season for medicinal and culinary purposes. Here’s how:

1. Harvest the flowers when they are fully open.
2. Cut the stems near the base of the plant.
3. Rinse the flowers and dry them thoroughly.

The leaves can be harvested at any time during the growing season. Cut the leaves from the stem and rinse them thoroughly before use.

FAQ

Q: How tall does yarrow grow?

A: Yarrow can grow up to 3 feet tall.

Q: How often should I water yarrow?

A: Yarrow does not require much water and can tolerate drought conditions. Water deeply only when the soil is dry to touch.

Q: Can yarrow be grown in containers?

A: Yes, yarrow can be grown in containers as long as they have good drainage.

Q: What are the medicinal uses of yarrow?

A: Yarrow has been used for centuries for its medicinal properties, including fever reduction, pain relief, and wound healing.

Q: Can yarrow be used in cooking?

A: Yes, yarrow leaves and flowers can be used in cooking as a flavoring agent in soups, stews, and herbal teas.

In conclusion, growing yarrow plant outdoors is easy and low-maintenance. With its beautiful foliage and medicinal properties, it’s a great addition to any garden. Follow our tips on soil preparation, planting, care, and maintenance to enjoy a healthy and thriving yarrow plant.