Yarrow is a total rockstar in the home garden, mostly because it’s incredibly tough and doesn’t ask for much. If you want to keep yours happy, the best trick is to mimic where it grows in the wild. Trust me, your yarrow will thank you for it!
Where You’ll Find It in Nature
In the wild, yarrow loves hanging out in meadows, along the edges of forests, near farm fields, and by the side of the road. It’s not picky at all—it can handle everything from partial shade to full, bright sun without breaking a sweat.
Ways to Grow Yarrow
You’ve got plenty of options for adding yarrow to your landscape, including:
- In naturalistic or rock gardens
- Tucked into perennial flower beds
- In pots to brighten up your balcony or patio
Finding the Perfect Spot in Your Garden
While yarrow is pretty flexible with sun and shade, if you want to play it safe, plant your yarrow in a spot with partial shade and a little bit of protection from the elements.
As for the soil, it loves a nutrient-rich mix that drains well. If your soil is looking a bit thin or “blah,” just mix in some organic compost to give it a boost. If you’re dealing with heavy, wet clay, try mixing in some sand or fine gravel to loosen things up. Generally speaking, yarrow much prefers being a little dry over having “wet feet.”
The big thing to watch out for is standing water. If the soil stays soggy for too long, it can rot the roots and ruin the whole plant. This is especially important if you’re growing yarrow in containers! Make sure to put a layer of gravel or clay pebbles at the bottom of your pot for drainage, then fill it with a loose, rich potting mix. A standard potting soil mixed with a bit of compost or sand works perfectly.
Great Neighbors for Your Yarrow
White yarrow looks absolutely stunning when paired with other garden favorites. Just make sure its neighbors like the same growing conditions so they don’t crowd each other out. Some of my favorite companions for yarrow are:
- Daisies
- Lupines
- Bellflowers
- Pinks (Dianthus)
- Garden poppies
Mixing and Matching Yarrow Varieties
You can also create some really cool visual effects by mixing different types of yarrow. Try playing with different heights and colors! A classic combo that always looks great is pairing low-growing woolly yarrow with tall, vibrant yellow “Gold Plate” yarrow.
