Name: Rattlesnake Master
Brand: Select Seeds, Co.
Availability: OutOfStock

Details

Approximate Seeds Per Packet

Lifecycle

Perennial

Perennial Hardiness Zone

Mature Size

4-5' h x 2-3' w

Sun

Full sun

Soil

Regular, well-drained

Season

Summer to fall

Color

Silvery green

Features

Great Cut Flower

Deer Resistant

Heat or Drought Tolerant

Attracts Butterflies

Attracts Bees

SOWING INSTRUCTIONS

Depth:

1/4"

Sprout Time:

14-28 days after chilling period

Starting Indoors:

Stratify for 30 days for best germination results. Sow in a container, cover with a plastic bag and refrigerate, or mix seed with damp clean sand or vermiculite, bag, and refrigerate at 35-40°F. Check often for germination and maintain a lightly moist medium. Transplant any seedlings as they germinate. After the chill period, sow into soilless media and keep at 65-70°F.

Starting Outdoors:

Direct sow in fall or earliest spring, or winter sow into pots in the shade, covered with a thin layer of clean sand and a wire screen to keep out mice and voles. Check for moisture at regular intervals.

WHEN TO SET OUTSIDE

This summer to autumn bloomer can be set in the ground in spring after all danger of frost has passed or in early autumn.

PLACEMENT & CULTIVATION

Rattlesnake master is great for wildflower and rock gardens and perennial borders, where it attracts beneficial insects to the clusters of globe-shaped flowers. Adaptable to differing soil types, it does best in relatively dry, sandy soils in full sun and is helpful in erosion-prone sites. It can sprawl in richer, wet soils and is best in meadow plantings intermingled with sturdy natives and grasses. Place some fine gravel around the crowns to allow for proper drainage during wintertime. Do not divide; this plant has a taproot that should not be disturbed once established.

Final Spacing:

1.5-2'

Water Requirements:

Low Water Use

Watering Details:

Water regularly while establishing, then only during especially dry, hot spells.

Soil pH:

Acidic to neutral

Fertilizer:

Do not fertilize during the first year of establishment. Subsequently, a springtime application of organic granular fertilizer or a 1/2" layer of compost.

Diseases & Pests:

No major pests or diseases. If aphids appear, spray plants down with a stream of water or spray with insecticidal soap. Occasionally, slugs or snails may be a problem—apply pelletized iron phosphate or some diatomaceous earth to the surrounding soil.

When to Cut for Bouquets:

Harvest when flowers are fully open.

Growing Guides Winter Sowing Guide

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