How to Grow Goldenrod

Overview

If you drive the highways of the United States, chances are good that you've seen goldenrod. The clusters of showy, yellow blooms atop fuzzy, green foliage grow wild in meadows and along roadsides and are hard to miss as you pass by. Goldenrod isn't a fussy plant, and once it's established, it can grow nearly anywhere. In the home garden, goldenrod is often seen in naturalized rock gardens, wildflower gardens or herb gardens. Goldenrod is a popular herbal remedy used to treat a number of health conditions, including colds and flu, digestive problems and fatigue.

Step 1

Decide where you want to plant the goldenrod seeds. Although goldenrod will grow nearly anywhere, it prefers sun and well-drained soil.

Step 2

Work some organic material such as mulch, leaves or compost into the soil. Plant the goldenrod seeds and cover them with a very thin layer of soil. Once the seedlings emerge, thin them to about one plant every 12 inches. Water the goldenrod lightly but frequently until the plants are established.

Step 3

Mature goldenrod plants will be tall, so plant the seeds in an area that is sheltered from the wind if possible. Otherwise, they may need stakes to keep them upright.

Step 4

Clip the blooms before they have a chance to go to seed, otherwise you may have more goldenrod than you bargained for. Divide the goldenrod every few years to keep them healthy and to prevent overcrowding.