When to plant Gaillardia (Blanket Flower) in Pulaski County, IL
In Pulaski County, plant Gaillardia (Blanket Flower) in spring between April 16 and May 7, once soil temps hold above 50°F. Pulaski County's last frost averages April 9, so most warm-season crops establish quickly once soil holds above 60°F. For a fall crop, sow between and — roughly 70–100 days before the first frost on October 22.
When to Plant Gaillardia (Blanket Flower) in Pulaski County, IL
Gaillardia (Gaillardia aristata), the native blanket flower of the American West, is one of the most floriferous and longest-blooming perennials available — producing cheerful, daisy-like flowers in fiery red, orange, and yellow combinations from early summer through hard frost in most climates. Named for the way its spreading colonies mimic the patterned blankets of Indigenous American weavers, gaillardia thrives in the exact conditions that challenge other perennials: poor, dry, gravelly soil in full sun. An outstanding pollinator plant, attracting bees, butterflies, and finches that feed on its seed heads. Somewhat short-lived (3–5 years) but self-seeds freely to sustain garden colonies.
Pulaski County, Illinois is in USDA Zone 7a. The average last spring frost is April 9 and the first fall frost is October 22, giving you a growing season of approximately 196 days.
At an elevation of 1,244 feet, Pulaski County receives approximately 30.9 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly silt loam soil. Summer highs average 85°F, providing good warmth for Gaillardia (Blanket Flower) during the growing season.
Pulaski County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Silt Loam
Soil pH
6.0-7.0
Drainage
Well Drained
Gaillardia (Blanket Flower) Planting Timeline — Pulaski County, IL
Gaillardia (Blanket Flower) Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Start Indoors | February 19 | Feb 19 – Mar 5 |
| Transplant Outdoors | April 16 | Apr 16 – Apr 30 |
| Direct Sow | April 16 | Apr 16 – May 7 |
| Bloom | June 25 | Jun 25 – Nov 12 |
Plant 0.1" deep · 12" apart · Rows 18" apart
Month-by-Month Timeline
| Month | Activities |
|---|---|
| January | — |
| February | Start Indoors |
| March | Start Indoors |
| April | Transplant Outdoors Direct Sow |
| May | Direct Sow |
| June | Bloom |
| July | Bloom |
| August | Bloom |
| September | Bloom |
| October | Bloom |
| November | Bloom |
| December | — |
Growing Conditions
☀️ Sun
Full Sun (6-8+ hours)
💧 Water
Low — drought tolerant
📅 Days to Maturity
70–100 days
🧪 Soil pH
Needs 6–7 · Your soil: N/A
🗺️ USDA Zone
Zone 7a
📆 Growing Season
196 days in Pulaski County
Growing Tips for Pulaski County
Start seeds indoors 6–8 weeks before last frost or direct-sow after last frost. Seeds need light to germinate — press onto soil surface without covering, or cover very lightly (1/8 inch). Transplant after last frost when soil has warmed. Lean, well-drained soil is essential — rich or wet soil causes sprawl and root rot. Deadhead spent blooms to prolong the season, but leave some heads for self-seeding to renew the planting. Divide every 2–3 years in spring to maintain vigor. Drought-tolerant once established; overwatering is more damaging than underwatering. Year 2+ plants deliver the fullest multi-season bloom.
Companion Planting
Good Companions
Check more plant combinations with our Companion Planting Checker →
Gaillardia (Blanket Flower) in Other Locations
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I plant Gaillardia (Blanket Flower) in Pulaski County, IL?
Pulaski County is in Zone 7a with an average last frost of April 9. Plan your Gaillardia (Blanket Flower) planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Pulaski County, IL?
Pulaski County, Illinois is in USDA Hardiness Zone 7a. The average last spring frost is April 9 and first fall frost is October 22.
When should I plant Gaillardia (Blanket Flower) in Pulaski County, IL?
In Pulaski County, IL, plant Gaillardia (Blanket Flower) after the last frost (around April 9) and before the first frost (around October 22). Best results when soil holds above 50°F.
What growing zone is Pulaski County, IL for Gaillardia (Blanket Flower)?
Pulaski County sits in USDA Zone 7a. Gaillardia (Blanket Flower) grows reliably in zones 3a through 10b, so it's a good fit here.
Can Gaillardia (Blanket Flower) grow in Pulaski County's climate?
Yes — Gaillardia (Blanket Flower) grows well in Pulaski County's temperate climate. Pulaski County averages a 196-day frost-free season, with last frost around April 9 and first frost around October 22.
Your Pulaski County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Pulaski County (Zone 7a). Planting dates, a month-by-month schedule, harvest log, seed inventory, and succession charts — all dialed in for your exact growing season.