Yarrow is one of those rockstar plants that’s incredibly low-maintenance and easy to grow. Because it’s so hardy, it’s a fantastic choice for both garden beds and balcony containers. That said, if you want your yarrow to thrive and come back stronger every year, there are a few simple tips you should keep in mind when planting.
Yarrow in the Wild
In the wild, you’ll mostly spot yarrow growing along the edges of forests or lining country roads. However, if you’re foraging, there’s a real risk of confusing it with some toxic look-alikes. If you’re planning to use yarrow in your cooking or as a medicinal herb, the safest bet is to grow it in your own garden. That way, you know exactly what you’re harvesting!
Finding the Perfect Spot in Your Garden
To pick the best location, just look at where yarrow grows naturally. It loves a warm, sunny spot where it can soak up the rays. When it comes to soil, it isn’t picky at all, but there is one dealbreaker: soggy feet. Make sure the soil drains well to prevent standing water.
Versatile Ways to Grow Yarrow
Yarrow fits in just about anywhere! It’s perfect for:
- Rock gardens
- Perennial borders
- Flower beds
- Container gardening
Planting vs. Sowing
You can start your yarrow journey either by sowing seeds or putting young plants in the ground. You can find both at your local garden center, or you can even collect seeds from existing plants. If you already have some yarrow, you can easily get new “babies” through cuttings or by dividing the root ball.
When to Get Digging
Technically, you can plant yarrow any time of year as long as the ground isn’t frozen and the weather cooperates. However, I usually recommend planting in the spring or summer. This gives the young plants plenty of time to establish a strong root system and prep themselves for the winter chill.
Keep It Fresh: Dividing Your Plants
After a few years, garden yarrow can start to look a bit “tired” or woody. You’ll notice the blooming period gets shorter, or the plant might stop flowering altogether. To prevent this, give your yarrow a “reboot” by dividing it every three years or so. Not only does this keep the plant vigorous, but it also gives you free plants to move to other parts of your yard!
Growing Yarrow in Pots
If you’re short on space, don’t worry—yarrow does great in pots and planters! It’s a lovely way to add some greenery to a balcony or patio. Just a quick tip: go for deeper pots rather than shallow window boxes. Yarrow likes to stretch its roots out, and a taller container will give it the room it needs to stay happy.
