Blow Wives (Achillea millefolium) is a wildflower that belongs to the sunflower family. It is also known as Yarrow, common yarrow, or milfoil. It is native to Europe and Asia and is known for its feathery leaves and clusters of small, white, or pink flowers.
The plant is a hardy perennial that can grow up to 3 feet tall. Its leaves are feathery, fern-like, and are typically a gray-green color. The small flowers come in clusters, typically white, pink, or yellow. They bloom from late spring to early summer. The plant is drought-tolerant and is a great choice for gardeners who want to add a touch of color and texture to their garden.
It is also a beneficial plant to have in the garden as it attracts pollinators and beneficial insects, it is also drought-tolerant and is also known to have medicinal properties.
Blow Wives is a versatile plant and can be grown in a wide range of soils and conditions and it can be planted in gardens, meadows, and naturalized areas. It is also an attractive cut flower and can be used in dried flower arrangements.
How to Grow Blow Wives Wildflower from Seed?
Growing Blow Wives (Achillea millefolium) from seed is a great way to add a touch of color and texture to your garden. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to grow Blow Wives from seed:
- Select the right location: Blow Wives prefers full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil. Choose a location in your garden that meets these requirements.
- Prepare the soil: Loosen the soil to a depth of about 6 inches and remove any debris, such as rocks or sticks. If the soil is heavy clay or sandy, amend it with compost or other organic matter to improve drainage and fertility.
- Sow the seeds: Sow the seeds in the spring or fall, depending on your climate. Sow the seeds on the surface of the soil and press them down gently. Do not cover the seeds with soil.
- Water: Keep the soil moist, but not wet, until the seedlings emerge. Once the seedlings have emerged, reduce watering to once a week, or as needed.
- Thin the seedlings: Once the seedlings have reached 2 inches in height, thin them to about 6-8 inches apart. This will give them room to grow and develop.
- Fertilize: Fertilize the plants with a balanced fertilizer once a month, during the growing season.
- Provide proper lighting: Blow Wives prefer full sun to partial shade, so place the pot in a location that receives at least 6 hours of sunlight per day.
How to Protect Blow Wives Wildflower from Overwintering?
Blow Wives (Achillea millefolium) is a hardy perennial that can survive in cold climates, but it still needs some protection during the winter months to ensure it comes back strong in the spring. Here are a few ways to protect Blow Wives from overwintering:
- Mulch: Apply a 2-3 inch layer of mulch around the base of the plant to insulate the roots and prevent the soil from freezing. Avoid mulching right up to the base of the plant, as this can trap moisture and lead to rot.
- Watering: Water the plant thoroughly before the ground freezes. This will help the plant to stay hydrated throughout the winter.
- Cut back: Cut the plant back to about 4 inches above the ground in the fall, after the first frost. This will help to reduce the amount of foliage that is exposed to the cold and the wind.
- Cover the plant with a burlap or frost blanket if the forecast predicts extreme cold temperatures. This will provide extra insulation to the plant, protecting it from the cold.
- Location: Selecting a location for the plant that is protected from strong winds and heavy snowfall can also help to protect it from overwintering.
How to Propagate Blow Wives Wildflower?
Propagating Blow Wives (Achillea millefolium) is a great way to increase the number of plants in your garden, and it’s relatively easy to do. Here are a few ways to propagate Blow Wives:
- Division: The easiest way to propagate Blow Wives is by dividing the clumps in the spring or fall. Carefully dig up the entire clump and divide it into smaller sections, making sure each section has a good root system. Replant the divisions in well-draining soil.
- Stem Cuttings: You can also propagate Blow Wives by taking stem cuttings in the spring or summer. Cut a stem about 4-6 inches long and remove the lower leaves. Dip the cut end in rooting hormone and plant it in a well-draining soil mix. Keep the soil moist and in a warm place until roots have formed and new growth appears.
- Root Cuttings: Another way to propagate Blow Wives is by taking root cuttings in the winter. Carefully dig up the plant and cut a 2-3 inch piece of root. Plant the rooted cutting in well-draining soil and keep it moist until new growth appears.
FAQs Related to Blow Wives Wildflower
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Blow Wives (Achillea millefolium) can help provide a quick reference for common questions and concerns about the care and cultivation of this beautiful wildflower. Here are a few examples of FAQs related to Blow Wives:
- What is the scientific name of Blow Wives? The scientific name of Blow Wives is Achillea millefolium.
- How often do Blow Wives need to be watered? Blow Wives should be watered when the top inch of soil is dry to the touch. Be careful not to over-water, as this can lead to root rot.
- How can I propagate Blow Wives? Blow Wives can be propagated through division, stem cuttings, and root cuttings.
- What is the best time to divide Blow Wives? The best time to divide Blow Wives is in the spring or fall.
- Is Blow Wives toxic to animals or humans? Blow Wives are not harmful to animals or humans but can cause skin irritation or allergic reactions in some individuals.
- What pests and diseases commonly attack Blow Wives? Blow Wives is generally a pest-free and disease-free plant.
- Can I use Blow Wives in my flower arrangements? Yes, Blow Wives is an attractive cut flower and can be used in dried flower arrangements.
- How can I care for Blow Wives during the winter? Blow Wives must be mulched, watered, and cut back before the ground freezes to protect it from the cold.
