If you’re looking to add some carefree, sun-loving color to your garden this summer, look no further than the humble coreopsis. Also known as tickseed, this cheerful perennial is a true workhorse, delivering waves of daisy-like blooms from early summer through fall with almost zero maintenance required. What this really means is that even the most novice or neglectful gardeners can enjoy a vibrant, pollinator-friendly display without the usual struggles.
Easy to Grow, Hard to Kill
The secret to coreopsis’ success lies in its exceptional adaptability. As The Old Farmer’s Almanac reports, this native North American plant thrives in a wide range of soil types and light conditions, tolerating everything from poor, dry soil to full, scorching sun. “It’s one of the most forgiving and adaptable perennials you can grow,” says garden expert Megan McConnell. “They’re drought-tolerant, deer-resistant, and practically maintenance-free.”
The bigger picture here is that coreopsis represents a rare win-win for gardeners – a plant that delivers abundant beauty with minimal effort. Proven Winners notes that most varieties don’t even require deadheading to keep the blooms coming. Simply plant them and let them do their thing.
Pollinator Magnets
But the appeal of coreopsis goes beyond its resilience. These flowers also serve as vital food sources for a range of pollinators, including bees, butterflies, and even hummingbirds. Birds & Blooms highlights how the nectar-rich blooms “add to the garden landscape all summer long” by continuously attracting winged visitors.
For gardeners looking to support local ecosystems and biodiversity, coreopsis makes an excellent addition to beds, borders, and even containers. The wide array of vibrant color options – from sunny yellows to rich reds – also allows you to tailor the look to your personal style.
A Low-Maintenance Star
The bottom line is that coreopsis is about as close to a “foolproof” flower as you’ll find. Whether you’re a seasoned green thumb or a complete novice, this resilient, pollinator-friendly plant can deliver effortless summer color with very little input. As recent analysis has shown, even the blackest of thumbs can grow thriving gardens with the right low-maintenance choices – and coreopsis is certainly one to consider.