Grecian Windflower Anemone blanda var. rosea

Water

The Grecian windflower requires moderate watering, especially during its growth period in spring. It should be watered when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch; this usually means once or twice a week, depending on the weather conditions and soil drainage. Provide the plant with approximately 1 gallon of water per square yard every week during active growth. When the plant is dormant during summer and fall, reduce watering significantly to prevent root rot. It's important to water the Grecian windflower at the base to avoid wetting the foliage, which can lead to fungal diseases.

Light

The Grecian windflower thrives best in partial shade to full sun. It should be planted in a spot that receives morning sunlight and is protected from the intense heat of the afternoon sun, such as under deciduous trees which provide dappled sunlight. However, it can also tolerate full sun as long as the soil is kept moist and not allowed to dry out.

Temperature

The Grecian windflower prefers a temperate climate with temperatures ranging between 50°F and 75°F. It can survive in temperatures as low as 20°F but should be protected from harsh winter conditions. The ideal growing temperature is between 60°F and 70°F, which encourages blooming and healthy foliage growth.

Pruning

Pruning the Grecian windflower is simple; it is done to remove spent flowers and tidy up the plant after blooming which encourages more blooms and prevents self-seeding if desired. Deadheading, or cutting back the spent blooms just above the leaf node, can be performed as soon as flowers fade. There's no need for heavy pruning; after the foliage yellows and dies back in the late spring or early summer, it can be removed to keep the area tidy.

Cleaning

Not needed

Soil

Grecian windflower thrives best in rich, well-draining soil with a pH of 5.5 to 7.5. A mix of loamy soil with added compost and a bit of coarse sand or perlite will ensure good drainage and fertility for optimal growth.

Repotting

Grecian windflowers are typically grown from tubers and don't require frequent repotting. Repot or divide the clumps every 3 to 4 years in the autumn to prevent overcrowding and maintain vigor.

Humidity & Misting

Grecian windflowers prefer moderate humidity levels but are quite adaptable. They do not require specific humidity conditions and can thrive in the average outdoor humidity levels found in their growing zones.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Ensure bright light, cool temps, and plant in well-drained soil.

• Outdoor

  Plant in part shade, enrich soil, and mulch for moisture.

• Hardiness zone

  4-9 USDA

Life cycle

Anemone blanda var. rosea, commonly known as the pink windflower, begins its life cycle when the corm, a bulb-like storage organ, is planted in the ground in late summer or fall. The roots start to develop in the cooler months, storing energy for the next growing season. In early spring, foliage emerges followed by the characteristic pink flowers, which bloom for several weeks before the petals fall away. After flowering, the plant continues to photosynthesize and store energy in the corm until the foliage yellows and dies back as summer approaches. The corm enters a dormant phase during the hot summer months. With the return of cooler weather, the cycle begins anew, with the corm sprouting roots in preparation for the next spring's growth.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Spring

• The most popular method of propagating Grecian windflower, which is the common name for Anemone blanda var. rosea, is by dividing its tubers. Division is best done in the fall after the leaves have died back. Carefully dig up the clump of tubers and gently separate them by hand. It is important to ensure that each section has at least one growth point or eye. Once divided, replant the tubers immediately at a depth of approximately 2 inches (5 centimeters), spaced around 3 to 4 inches (7.5 to 10 centimeters) apart in well-drained soil. Make sure the site gets partial to full sun to encourage the best blooms in the spring. By the next growing season, these divisions should develop into blooming plants, effectively multiplying your Grecian windflowers.