Yarrow Varieties That Flourish with Regular Deadheading

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Yarrow (Achillea millefolium) is a popular perennial known for its feathery foliage and vibrant clusters of flowers. It is favored by gardeners for its hardiness and ability to attract pollinators. To keep yarrow blooming profusely throughout the growing season, regular deadheading is essential.

  • Achillea ‘Moonshine’ – Bright yellow flowers that maintain their color longer with deadheading.
  • Achillea ‘Paprika’ – Rich orange blooms that flourish when deadheaded regularly.
  • Achillea ‘Red Velvet’ – Deep red flowers that rebloom after removal of spent blooms.
  • Achillea ‘Terracotta’ – Warm, earthy-colored flowers that benefit from deadheading to prolong flowering.
  • Achillea ‘Lemon Queen’ – Soft yellow flowers that produce more blooms with consistent deadheading.

Why Deadhead Yarrow?

Deadheading involves removing faded or spent flowers to encourage the plant to produce more blooms. For yarrow, this practice helps:

  • Prolong flowering period
  • Maintain plant appearance
  • Prevent seed formation, which can divert energy from new flower production
  • Reduce the risk of disease by removing decaying plant material

How to Deadhead Yarrow Effectively

To deadhead yarrow properly, follow these steps:

  • Use clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears
  • Identify the spent flower heads
  • Cut just above the set of healthy leaves or at the base of the flower stalk
  • Remove all faded blooms to encourage new growth
  • Repeat regularly throughout the blooming season

Additional Tips for Healthy Yarrow Plants

Besides deadheading, ensure your yarrow plants stay healthy by providing proper care:

  • Plant in well-drained soil to prevent root rot
  • Place in full sun for optimal flowering
  • Water sparingly once established, as yarrow is drought-tolerant
  • Divide plants every few years to maintain vigor

Conclusion

Regular deadheading is a simple yet effective way to ensure your yarrow varieties continue to produce vibrant, abundant blooms. By choosing the right varieties and maintaining proper care, you can enjoy a colorful and long-lasting display in your garden.