Rudbeckia (P)
Rudbeckia hirta
Annual/Perennial. Hardy in zones 3-7.
Often overwinters, but is not dependable. Although it is usually short-lived, it reseeds so freely that you will always have these cheerful daisies in your garden. Start inside 6-8 weeks before last frost. Do not cover seed. Provide light and warmth of 21-24°C (70-75°F). May also be direct seeded into the garden two weeks before your last frost date. Transplant outside after last frost into a full sun location, 12-24 inches apart. Provide some shade if your summers are very hot. Top-dress with manure in the spring or fall. Drought tolerant.
