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Gardening in Edmonton, Canada, comes with its own set of challenges due to our city's unique climate. Harsh winters, fluctuating temperatures, and a very limited growing season can make it difficult to cultivate a thriving garden.
However, with the right selection of plants, it is possible to create a beautiful and resilient garden that withstands Edmonton's weather. One such plant that thrives in these conditions is yarrow!
A Favourite Perennial for Edmonton Gardens
Yarrow, also known as common yarrow or milfoil, is a herbaceous perennial native to North America. It is a member of the Asteraceae family and is known for its fern-like foliage and clusters of small, tightly-packed flowers.
Yarrow blooms from late spring to early fall and is available in a variety of colours, including white, yellow, pink, purple and red.
Yarrow's Hardy Nature
One of the primary reasons yarrow is well-suited to Edmonton's gardens is its exceptional hardiness. Yarrow is a tough and resilient plant that can withstand extreme temperatures, making it ideal for the northern city's climate.
It is cold hardy and can tolerate frost, snow, and prolonged freezing temperatures. Additionally, yarrow is also drought-tolerant once established, making it a perfect choice for Edmonton's dry summers.
Yarrow is Adaptable to Edmonton's Soil Conditions
Edmonton's soil composition can vary significantly, ranging from heavy clay to sandy loam. Yarrow is a versatile plant that can adapt to different soil types. It prefers well-draining soil but can tolerate a wide range of conditions, including poor or rocky soil.
Yarrow's ability to grow in various soil types makes it a fantastic option for gardeners in Edmonton who may encounter different soil conditions within their yards.
Yarrow is a Sun-loving Plant
Yarrow is a sun-loving plant that thrives in full sunlight. In Edmonton, where the summers provide long daylight hours, yarrow can receive the necessary sun exposure to grow and bloom abundantly.
However, it can also tolerate partial shade, although it may result in less vigorous growth and fewer flowers. When selecting a spot for yarrow in your garden, choose a location that receives at least six hours of direct sunlight each day.
Yarrow Attracts Pollinators
Yarrow's flowers are a showstopper in any garden. They form flat-topped clusters called umbels and are known for their vibrant colours and intricate patterns.
Yarrow flowers attract pollinators such as bees, butterflies, and beneficial insects, making them an excellent addition to any pollinator-friendly garden.
Additionally, yarrow flowers have a delightful fragrance that adds an extra sensory element to your garden, attracting humans as well.
Yarrow is a Low-maintenance Perennial
For gardeners seeking low-maintenance plants, yarrow fits the bill perfectly.
Once established, yarrow requires minimal care and attention. It has a deep root system that helps it access water and nutrients, reducing the need for frequent watering. Yarrow is generally pest-resistant and doesn't require extensive pruning or deadheading.
However, if you wish to promote more blooms, removing spent flowers can encourage a second flush of blooms later in the season.
Yarrow is a Perfect Cut Flower for Your DIY Bouquets
Yarrow's versatility and long-lasting nature make it an exceptional choice as a filler flower in cut flower bouquets. Its delicate clusters of flowers add texture and dimension to arrangements, creating a sense of airiness and movement. Yarrow's slender stems make it easy to incorporate into bouquets, allowing it to gracefully fill in gaps and provide a lush, abundant look.
As a filler flower, yarrow complements a wide range of blooms, from large focal flowers to smaller accent blooms. Its ability to blend harmoniously with various colors and flower types makes it a valuable addition to any cut flower bouquet, enhancing the overall visual appeal and adding a touch of wild beauty.
Love Always,
Janelle & Lynn