Yarrow. Sounds like something out of a fantasy novel, doesn’t it? But trust me, it’s real, and it’s something you want in your garden. It’s tough, resilient, and surprisingly versatile. You can find yarrow blooming in a rainbow of colors—pinks, reds, whites—and it thrives even in the most unforgiving conditions. If you’re someone who has a hard time keeping plants alive, this one will make you feel like a gardening pro.
Yarrow’s not just for looks, though. It’s got a long history of medicinal use. People have been using it for centuries to treat wounds and even help with digestive issues. So, yeah, it’s pretty much the superhero of the herb garden. And it smells amazing, too—earthy, slightly sweet, with just a hint of spice.
It’s hardy as heck, blooms from late spring to early summer, and grows like a champ in poor soil, drought, and full sun. Just make sure to give it a little space because it has a habit of spreading its wings (or roots, rather). It doesn’t need much maintenance, but a little pruning here and there will keep it looking sharp.
Yarrow’s one of those plants you can pretty much forget about and still watch it thrive—ideal for lazy gardeners or those with a lot of things going on. Plus, the butterflies love it, and you’ll feel a little like a nature god every time you see them swarming around it.
How to Grow Yarrow
Growing Yarrow is a very rewarding gardening experience. It is a resilient and easy-to-grow plant that adds beauty to your garden and offers medicinal benefits.
Planting Yarrow
- Choosing a Location:
- Sunlight: Yarrow thrives in full sun. Choose a location where it will receive at least 6-8 hours of sunlight daily.
- Soil: Yarrow grows best in well-drained soil. It can tolerate poor soil conditions but prefers soil that is slightly alkaline.
- Planting Time:
- Seeds: Plant yarrow seeds in early spring when the soil has warmed. You can also start seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before the last frost date.
- Transplants: If planting transplants, do so in the spring or fall.
- Planting Depth and Spacing:
- Seeds: Sow seeds lightly on the soil surface and press them gently into the soil. Do not cover them deeply as they need light to germinate.
- Transplants: Dig a hole just big enough for the root ball and plant yarrow at the same depth it was growing in its container.
- Spacing: Space plants about 1 to 2 feet apart, as they will spread.
Growing Yarrow
- Watering:
- Yarrow is drought-tolerant once established. Water newly planted yarrow regularly until it is established, then water sparingly.
- Fertilizing:
- Yarrow generally doesn’t need fertilizer. Over-fertilizing can cause the plant to become leggy and may reduce blooming.
- Pruning:
- Deadhead spent flowers to encourage continuous blooming throughout the season. In late fall, after the first frost, cut the plants back to the ground to promote healthy growth in the spring.
- Pest and Disease Management:
- Yarrow is relatively pest and disease-resistant. However, watch for powdery mildew in humid conditions. Ensure good air circulation around plants to prevent this.
Harvesting Yarrow
- When to Harvest:
- Harvest yarrow when the flowers are fully open but before they start to fade. This is usually in mid to late summer.
- How to Harvest:
- Cut the stems about 2 inches above the ground. If you plan to use the flowers for drying, harvest them early in the morning after the dew has dried.
- Using Yarrow:
- Fresh: Yarrow can be used fresh in arrangements or as a medicinal herb. The leaves and flowers can be used in teas, tinctures, or as a topical treatment for wounds.
- Drying: Hang yarrow stems upside down in a dark, well-ventilated area to dry. Once dried, store them in a cool, dark place.
Yarrow Growing Zone
Yarrow (Achillea millefolium) is a hardy perennial plant that is well-suited to growing in USDA Hardiness Zones 3 through 9.
It can tolerate a range of conditions, including poor soil, and is drought-resistant once established.
Growing Yarrow FAQ
Yarrow thrives in full sun, needing at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily. It can tolerate partial shade but may become leggy and produce fewer flowers.
The best time to plant Yarrow is in the spring or early summer, after the last frost has passed. You can also plant in the fall in milder climates.
Yarrow can be propagated by seeds, division, or cuttings. Seeds should be sown in early spring, while division and cuttings are best done in spring or early fall.
Yarrow can spread aggressively in some conditions, especially in ideal growing environments. To control its spread, divide the plants every 2-3 years and consider planting in containers or using a root barrier.
Yes, Yarrow can be grown in containers. Use a well-draining potting mix, and ensure the container has drainage holes. Keep in mind that container-grown plants may need more frequent watering.
Yarrow typically blooms from late spring to early fall, with peak bloom in mid-summer. Deadheading spent flowers can extend the blooming period.
Yes, Yarrow is generally deer-resistant due to its aromatic foliage, which deters browsing animals.
Sign up to get our FREE weekly emails
Gardening guides, tips, & videos delivered right to your inbox!
