White Yarrow Seeds - Achillea millefolium

3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9

USDA Zones 3-9 - Grows as a hardy perennial. It is highly adaptable to a wide range of climates but performs best in well-draining soils and full sun.

Best performance in Zones 3-8 where it can establish and thrive with minimal care.

Northern zones (3-5) - Plant seeds in early spring after the last frost date or in late fall. Yarrow requires a period of cold stratification to germinate well, which can be accomplished naturally by fall sowing or artificially by refrigerating the seeds.

Hot climate zones (8-9) - Plant in early spring or fall. Yarrow is heat-tolerant but may benefit from some afternoon shade in the hottest climates to prevent stress.

Soil temperature critical - Germination is best in cool soil, with an optimal temperature range of 60-70F.

Growing season needs - As a perennial, it will establish its root system in the first year and provide a prolific display of flowers in subsequent years. It requires a frost-free period to grow but is extremely cold-tolerant once established.

Learn more about USDA Hardiness Zones here

When to Plant:
Sow seeds outdoors in early spring after the last frost date, or in late fall. Fall sowing allows for natural cold stratification, which can improve germination rates. For a head start, you can also start seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before the last frost.

Location and Soil:
Choose a location that receives full sun (at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight per day). Yarrow is highly adaptable and will tolerate a wide range of soils, but it thrives in poor to average, well-draining soil. It dislikes heavy, wet soils, which can cause root rot.

Starting Seeds:

Cold Stratification: For best results, place the seeds in a moist paper towel inside a plastic bag and refrigerate for 2-4 weeks before planting.

Sowing Indoors: Sow seeds in seed starting trays, pressing them lightly into the surface of the soil. Do not cover the seeds, as they require light to germinate.

Sowing Outdoors: Prepare a seedbed by raking the soil smooth. Scatter seeds over the surface and lightly press them into the soil.

Care and Maintenance:

Watering: Water seedlings regularly to keep the soil moist but not soggy. Once established, yarrow is very drought-tolerant and requires minimal watering.

Thinning: Once seedlings are a few inches tall, thin them to a spacing of 12-18 inches apart to ensure good air circulation.

Deadheading: To encourage more blooms and a tidier appearance, deadhead spent flowers throughout the blooming season.

Pests and Diseases: Yarrow is generally pest and disease-free. Ensure good air circulation to prevent powdery mildew in humid climates.

Division: Yarrow clumps can become crowded over time. Divide plants every 3-5 years in early spring or fall to maintain vigor.

Harvesting:
For fresh flower arrangements, harvest yarrow when the flower clusters are fully open but before the tiny flowers begin to fade. For drying, cut the stems and hang them upside down in a cool, dry, dark place with good air circulation.