How to plant achilleas

Achilleas, commonly known as yarrows, are robust and long-flowering hardy perennials. These stunning plants produce broad, flat-topped clusters of tiny, vibrant flowers that rise elegantly above delicate, fern-like grey-green foliage. They are visually striking and highly attractive to pollinators, making them an excellent choice for gardeners looking to support bees and butterflies.

Perfect for the back of sunny borders, wildflower meadows, or rock gardens, achilleas bring structure and colour to any planting scheme. Their airy blooms create a beautiful contrast when paired with late-season perennials such as heleniums and rudbeckias, while their soft texture complements spiky plants like eryngiums and veronicas. In addition to their garden appeal, achilleas make excellent cut flowers and are ideal for drying to provide winter floral arrangements.

How to Grow Achilleas

  • Soil & Position – Plant in moist, well-drained soil in a sunny position. While achilleas tolerate most soil types and can thrive in poor or dry conditions, they will perform best in fertile, well-draining ground.

  • Support & Care – In exposed areas or where soil fertility is high, taller varieties may require staking to prevent them from flopping. Regular deadheading will prolong flowering and encourage a second flush of blooms.

  • Watering & Feeding – Once established, achilleas are drought-tolerant, requiring minimal watering. Avoid overfeeding, as excessive nutrients can lead to leggy growth.

Supplied as Bare-Root Perennials

At Peter Nyssen, we supply achilleas as bare-root perennials. Always unpack and plant upon arrival to ensure optimal establishment.

Planting in pots can help the root systems develop and increase their success rate without competition from other plants. 

Common Problems, Pests, and Diseases

  • Aphids – These sap-feeding insects can weaken plants and spread viruses. To manage infestations, remove by hand (wear gloves) or encourage natural predators such as ladybirds.

  • Powdery Mildew – A fungal disease that appears as a white, powdery coating on leaves, often due to poor air circulation or excessive shade. Improve airflow around plants, remove infected foliage, and disinfect your tools after pruning.

By incorporating achilleas into your planting scheme, you’ll enhance your garden with their long-lasting colour and delicate foliage and support a thriving, wildlife-friendly environment.

READ MORE ABOUT HARDY PERENNIALS



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