Blanket flowers do have a tendency to spread, although the rate of spread can vary depending on various factors such as growing conditions, care, and the specific cultivar of blanket flower.
Blanket flowers (Gaillardia) are considered short-lived perennials, which means they typically have a lifespan of about 2-3 years. However, they can self-sow and produce new plants through their seeds, allowing them to spread and establish themselves in different areas of the garden.
One of the reasons why blanket flowers are called “blanket” flowers is because they have the ability to slowly spread and cover an area with their vibrant blooms. They form a mound-like habit, which gradually expands over time as new shoots emerge from the base of the plant.
In my personal experience, I have found that blanket flowers can be quite resilient and adaptable. They have a tendency to send out runners or stolons, which are horizontal stems that grow along the surface of the soil. These runners can root and produce new plants, helping the blanket flowers to spread and colonize a larger area.
However, it’s important to note that the rate of spread may not be as rapid or invasive as some other perennial plants. Blanket flowers generally have a more controlled and moderate growth habit, making them suitable for smaller garden spaces or areas where you want to add a pop of color without overwhelming the landscape.
To encourage the spread of blanket flowers, you can allow the plants to go to seed and scatter their seeds naturally. This can be done by leaving the spent flowers on the plant until they dry out and the seeds are fully mature. The seeds can then fall to the ground and germinate when conditions are favorable.
If you wish to control the spread of blanket flowers or prevent them from taking over a particular area, you can deadhead the flowers before they go to seed. Deadheading involves removing the spent blooms, which not only prevents self-sowing but also encourages the plant to produce more flowers.
Blanket flowers do have the ability to spread, but their spread is typically slow and controlled. They can produce new plants through self-sowing and the growth of runners, allowing them to gradually cover an area with their colorful blooms. However, their spread is not usually as aggressive as some other perennial plants, making them a great choice for adding beauty and color to your garden without overpowering the landscape.
