| I HAVE BEUTIFUL CLUMPS OF BLACKEYED SUSANS THAT FLOWERED NICELY THIS SEASON. DO I NEED TO DIVIDE THEM AS THE YEARS GO BY ? ANY SPECIAL CARE ? THANKS ! |
| Black eyed Susans or Rudbeckia hirta are usually divided every few years to renew them; you can also use the excess divisions to increase your planting if you wish. Do it when blooming seems to be decreased and the plants seem less vigorous. You may also find seedlings which can be pulled as weeds or transplanted if desired. Deadheading will prevent seeding, however it is not necessary to deadhead and the birds seem to enjoy the seeds as well. An annual topdressing with good quality compost, possibly a complete fertilizer (such as 10-10-10) each spring, and a year round organic mulch should be sufficient. These are fairly low maintenance plants. Enjoy! |
