Yarrow

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Less is more

Yarrow thrives in poor soil. Too much fertilizer leads to floppy growth and fewer flowers.

Handles dry spells well

Once established, yarrow is very drought-tolerant and needs little watering.

It likes to spread

Yarrow spreads by rhizomes and can take over if not controlled. Divide regularly if needed.

A pollinator favorite

Flat flower heads provide easy access for many pollinators like bees and hoverflies.

Perfect for drying

Harvest flowers for drying when fully open. They keep shape and color well.

Cut back for more blooms

Cut plants back after first flowering to encourage a second bloom later in the season.

Overview

Size (cm): 50 cm width · 70 cm height
Zone: SE 1-8 · USDA 3-9
Comfort temperature: 10-28 C
Temperature limit: -35 C
Planting temperature: 8 C
Germination time (days): 14

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General

Yarrow is a hardy perennial known for its feathery foliage and flat clusters of small flowers. It is highly resilient, drought-tolerant, and widely used in naturalistic planting and pollinator gardens.

Light

Full sun to partial sun.

Soil type

Well-drained soil; tolerates poor, sandy, or rocky soils.

Water requirement

Low; drought tolerant once established.

Nutrient requirement

Low; thrives in low-fertility soils.

Precultivation

Sow seeds on the surface of moist soil and do not cover, as they need light to germinate. Keep temperatures moderate and ensure good airflow to prevent damping off.

Planting

Plant in a sunny or lightly shaded spot with well-drained soil. Space about 30–50 cm apart. Avoid overly rich soil to prevent floppy growth.

Pruning

Deadhead to prolong flowering. Cut back after flowering or in early spring. Pruning encourages compact growth and can promote a second bloom.

Maintenance

Requires minimal care. Water during establishment, then only during prolonged drought. Divide every few years to maintain vigor.

Harvest

Harvest flowers when fully open for drying or fresh use. Cut stems in the morning for best quality.

Common issues

Can become floppy in rich soil. May spread aggressively. Generally resistant to pests and diseases.

Pollination

Insect-pollinated.

Companion plants

Lavender, sage, thyme, echinacea, grasses.

Incompatible plants

None specific; avoid overly rich, crowded conditions.

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