Western Rudbeckia

2024 Author: Gavin MacAdam | [email protected]. Last modified: 2023-12-16 13:38

Rudbeckia western (lat. Rudbeckia occidentalis) - flowering decorative culture; a representative of the genus Rudbeckia of the Asteraceae family. An unusually attractive and original look, represented by two varieties that are unprecedentedly popular among gardeners. Belongs to the group of perennial rubble.

Characteristics of culture

Western rudbeckia is represented by perennial herbaceous plants up to 150 cm high. Unlike its closest relatives, the inflorescences of the species in question are devoid of reed flowers and have the shape of a cone or an elongated black cone surrounded by green bracts. Only two varieties can be found on the garden market - these are Green Wizard and Black Beauty. Western rudbeckia blooms from mid-late June to September. The original species, introduced into culture only in 2002. Boasts drought tolerant properties. It is difficult to say about winter hardiness, because in central Russia, western rudbeckia began to be used quite recently.

The plant is suitable for creating single and group plantings on the lawn, decorating fences, porches, gazebos and other garden and architectural structures. Also, western rudbeckia can be used to compose live bouquets. Like other members of the genus, this species of rudbeckia is photophilous; it is recommended to grow it in areas open to the sun, protected from northern winds. Soils are preferable fertilized, treated, moderately moist, permeable, loamy. It is possible to grow on sandy soils, as well as strongly acidic soils, subject to prior liming. Heavy clayey, waterlogged, too dry, waterlogged and saline soils are not suitable for the culture.

Reproduction

The western rudbeckia is propagated by seeds. The collection of seeds is carried out in the fall, after which they are dried, put in paper bags and stored in a dry and warm room. In central Russia, this type of rudbeckia is grown in seedlings. Seeds are sown in seedling boxes in early spring to a depth of 3 mm, well moistened and covered with glass or foil. The room temperature must be at least 21C. With the emergence of shoots (after about 14-15 days), the boxes are placed on the windowsill, but shaded from direct sunlight. In phase 2 of true leaves, seedlings of western rudbeckia dive into separate containers filled with nutrient soil.

Seedlings are transplanted to a permanent place not earlier than the first decade of June, after the threat of frost has passed. It is important to remember that western rudbeckia seedlings are sensitive to frost, before they are planted in open ground, they must be hardened. The health, growth and quality of flowering largely depends on the distance between plants, it should be at least 30-35 cm. Rudbeckia has a negative attitude towards cramped conditions. Sowing in open ground is possible in the southern regions. The seeds are not buried, but slightly sprinkled with soil, after which they are moistened with warm and settled water.

Reproduction by dividing rhizomes is widespread among gardeners. This method is suitable only for perennials, such as western rudbeckia. Plants are dug up in early spring, divided so that each division has its own renewal bud and part of the root system. Delenki are planted in pre-prepared and fertilized soil. This approach is used not only for reproduction, but also for the renewal of bushes. Rudbeckia pleases with abundant and long flowering for five years, then it needs division, so it is advisable to carry out this procedure every three to four years.

Care

Caring for western rudbeckia is quite simple. Plants need rare watering with warm and settled water, weeding, loosening and feeding. It should be noted that regular watering of rudbeckia is necessary only at a young age, the further health of the plant depends on them. Top dressing is carried out 2-3 times per season with complex mineral fertilizers, but observing the measure, excess fertilizers can harm rudbeckia. Timely removal of faded inflorescences is also important from care, this operation will prolong flowering.