Coreopsis ‘UPTICK™ Gold and Bronze’: A Vibrant Perennial for Every Garden
Coreopsis ‘UPTICK™ Gold and Bronze’, commonly known as Tickseed, belongs to the family Asteraceae, a large family of flowering plants that includes daisies, sunflowers, and asters. This genus, Coreopsis, is native to North America and is cherished for its daisy-like flowers and ease of cultivation. The ‘UPTICK™’ series, known for its compact growth and prolific blooming, has been bred to provide continuous color throughout the summer and into the fall.
Description
Coreopsis ‘UPTICK™ Gold and Bronze’ is a compact, herbaceous perennial that forms a tidy and bushy mound of narrow, mid-green foliage. This plant is particularly noted for its large, bright golden-yellow flowers with striking bronze-red centers. Blooming continuously from early summer to fall, these flowers can reach nearly 3 inches in diameter, providing a stunning display of color in the garden.
The plant grows to a height of 12-14 inches and spreads 12-14 inches wide, making it an excellent choice for sunny borders, decorative containers, and mass plantings. Its mounded habit and mildew-resistant foliage make it a low-maintenance option for gardeners seeking vibrant, long-lasting color.
Ornamental Features
- Flower Color: Bright golden-yellow with bronze-red centers
- Foliage Color: Mid-green
- Bloom Time: Early summer to fall
- Habit: Mounded, compact
- Height: 12-14 inches
- Spread: 12-14 inches
- Flower Characteristics: Nearly 3 inches in diameter, excellent for cutting
Landscape Attributes
Coreopsis ‘UPTICK™ Gold and Bronze’ is highly versatile and can be used in a variety of landscape settings. It is perfect for sunny borders, cottage or coastal gardens, and containers. This plant’s compact size and long blooming period make it ideal for mass plantings, where it can create a bold splash of color. It is also deer-resistant and attracts pollinators like bees and butterflies, making it an excellent choice for wildlife gardens.
Care Instructions for Coreopsis ‘UPTICK™ Gold and Bronze’:
- Sunlight: Thrives in full sun but tolerates partial shade, especially in hot summer areas.
- Water: Requires medium moisture and well-drained soils. It is drought-tolerant once established but benefits from regular watering during prolonged dry periods.
- Soil: Not fussy about soil type but prefers well-drained soils. It can tolerate poor, average, and fertile soils.
- Fertilization: Fertilize lightly once in spring with a balanced granular formula. Over-fertilization can lead to spindly growth.
- Maintenance: Deadhead regularly to promote continuous blooming. Shear plants back by a few inches as flowering slows to encourage a more attractive form and possible rebloom in autumn. Cut old stems back to their bases at the end of the year.
- Hardiness Zone: 5-9
- Tolerance: Highly tolerant of heat and urban pollution. Disease-resistant but keep an eye out for slugs and snails.
Propagation
Coreopsis ‘UPTICK™ Gold and Bronze’ can be propagated from basal cuttings. Here’s how:
- Cuttings: Take 3-4 inch cuttings from the base of the plant in early spring.
- Preparation: Remove the lower leaves and dip the cut end in the rooting hormone.
- Planting: Insert the cuttings into a well-draining potting mix, keeping the soil moist.
- Environment: Place the cuttings in a bright, indirect light location with high humidity.
- Root Development: Roots should develop in a few weeks. Once well-rooted, transplant into individual pots or directly into the garden.
Additional Notes
Coreopsis ‘UPTICK™ Gold and Bronze’ is a garden favorite due to its vibrant, long-lasting blooms and low maintenance requirements. Its ability to thrive in various soil types and its resistance to common pests and diseases make it an ideal choice for both novice and experienced gardeners. Regular deadheading and appropriate watering will ensure that this cheerful perennial remains a standout feature in any garden or container display.
By incorporating Coreopsis ‘UPTICK™ Gold and Bronze’ into your garden, you can enjoy a summer-long display of bright, golden-yellow flowers with bronze-red centers that attract pollinators and add a burst of color to your outdoor space. This versatile and resilient plant is sure to become a cherished addition to your garden.
