How to Plant Liatris Spicata

Overview

Liatris spicata is commonly called gayfeather. The flower spikes reach up to 3 feet tall and are covered in small pink, blue or white flowers. A perennial, the Liatris blooms from June until early fall. It is drought-tolerant and grows well in most areas of the United States, though it should be mulched heavily in regions with extremely cold winters.

Step 1

Prepare the garden bed in spring after the last expected frost date in your area. Choose a well-draining bed in full sun. Spread a 2-inch layer of compost over the bed and till it in to 8 inches to improve drainage.

Step 2

Sow corms, which resemble small bulbs, with the pointed sides up in 5-inch-deep holes. Cover each corm with soil and firm it lightly with your hands. Space corms 2 to 4 inches apart in clusters or rows.

Step 3

Water weekly, keeping the soil moist but not soggy. After the plant begins blooming, allow the soil surface to dry slightly between waterings.

Step 4

Spread a 2-inch layer of organic mulch around the plants to preserve moisture and prevent weeds. Spread 4 inches of straw mulch over the bed if winter mulching is required.

Step 5

Cut off the foliage with sharp shears once it has yellowed after the first frost and dispose of it.