Tickseed Coreopsis 'Pumpkin Pie' (PBR) (Pie Series)

Water

For the Coreopsis 'Pumpkin Pie', also commonly known as Tickseed, it is important to maintain consistent moisture without overwatering. Water the plant deeply once a week, providing about 1 gallon per plant to encourage a deep root system, adjusting for rainfall and climate conditions. During particularly hot or dry spells, increase watering frequency to twice a week. In cooler weather or if the Tickseed is planted in heavy soil, reduce watering to prevent waterlogging. Always check that the top inch of soil is dry before watering again to avoid root rot.

Light

Tickseed thrives best in full sun and will produce the most vibrant flowers when it receives at least six to eight hours of direct sunlight daily. Plant Tickseed in a location where it is exposed to unfiltered, continuous sunlight throughout the day. If grown in too much shade, the plant may become leggy and produce fewer flowers.

Temperature

The Tickseed is a hardy plant that can tolerate a range of temperatures but grows best when daytime temperatures are between 60°F and 75°F. It can withstand minimum temperatures down to about -30°F, making it suitable for many temperate regions. The plant's ideal growing conditions include warm days and cooler nights.

Pruning

Pruning Tickseed encourages a bushier plant with more flowers and prevents the plant from getting too leggy. Deadheading, or removing spent flowers, regularly throughout the blooming season promotes continuous flowering. After the first flush of blooms, cut back Tickseed by about one-third to encourage a second bloom in late summer or early fall. This pruning can be done as needed when the plant's appearance begins to decline.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

Tickseed 'Pumpkin Pie' thrives in well-draining soil with a pH between 5.8 and 6.8. A mixture containing garden soil, peat moss, and perlite or sand enhances drainage. Amending with organic matter improves fertility and structure for healthy growth.

Repotting

Tickseed 'Pumpkin Pie' does not require frequent repotting; it can be done every 2-3 years. Check the roots in spring and repot if they are crowded to maintain plant vigor.

Humidity & Misting

Tickseed 'Pumpkin Pie' is versatile and tolerates a wide range of humidity levels, but prefers moderate conditions. Avoiding excessive humidity reduces the risk of fungal diseases.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Place Tickseed 'Pumpkin Pie' in bright, indirect light indoors.

• Outdoor

  In outdoor settings, ensure Tickseed 'Pumpkin Pie' receives full sun.

• Hardiness zone

  Tickseed 'Pumpkin Pie' is suitable for USDA zones 5-9.

Life cycle

The Coreopsis 'Pumpkin Pie', commonly known as Tickseed, begins its life cycle as a seed, planted in well-drained soil during the cooler temperatures of early spring or fall. Upon germination, the plant develops a rosette of foliage followed by the formation of slender, upright stems. Tickseed then enters a rapid vegetative growth phase, during which leaves and stems mature, and eventually, flower buds form. The blooming stage unfolds in late spring to summer, showcasing daisy-like flowers with a vibrant orange hue, attracting pollinators. After pollination, the flowers produce seeds, which can be dispersed by wind or wildlife, propagating the next generation of plants. As temperatures cool, the Tickseed enters dormancy, with the above-ground parts dying back and the plant relying on its root system to survive the winter until the cycle begins anew with the next growing season.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Spring to Summer

• Coreopsis 'Pumpkin Pie', a type of Tickseed, is typically propagated by division, which is the most popular method for this perennial plant. This process is best done in the early spring or fall, when the plant is not in active bloom. To propagate by division, carefully lift the entire clump from the ground using a garden fork or shovel. Gently separate the clump into smaller sections, making sure that each section has several healthy roots and a portion of the crown. These divisions can then be replanted into well-drained soil at the same depth they were originally growing. Water the newly planted divisions thoroughly to help establish them in their new location. This method allows gardeners to quickly and efficiently produce new plants that are genetically identical to the parent plant.