Coreopsis (Tickseed) Growth and Care Guide
Coreopsis, often called Tickseed, is a bright and cheerful perennial loved for its abundant, daisy-like blooms that light up the garden from Spring through Fall. Its resilience, long flowering season, and ability to thrive in poor soils make it a favorite among both beginner and experienced gardeners. In this Plant Guide, you’ll learn everything you need to grow, care for, and enjoy Coreopsis in your garden. From ideal sunlight and soil needs to maintenance tips and top varieties, this guide gives you the confidence to help your Coreopsis thrive.
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By: Reggie Meehan (11/26/2025) - Last Updated (2/13/2026)
Introduction to Coreopsis (Tickseed)
Coreopsis, most folks know it as Tickseed, is one of those hardy, feel good perennials that brightens everything around it. Those cheerful, daisy like blooms bring so much life to a garden, whether you are planting a classic yellow or something bold and dramatic. They are true sun lovers and, once established, remarkably tough. I have always appreciated how long they bloom without demanding much in return. Whether you are designing a relaxed cottage garden or a more natural meadow style space, Tickseed brings both beauty and ecological value.
Coreopsis belongs to the Asteraceae family and is native to North and South America, which explains a lot about its adaptability. You will find it in shades of creamy white, golden yellow, warm orange, rich red, soft pink, and beautiful bi colors, so there is truly a selection for every color palette. With its long bloom season, drought tolerance, and easygoing nature, it fits beautifully into borders, wildflower gardens, and pollinator plantings.
I still remember the first time I planted Coreopsis Moonbeam in one of my sunny borders. Those soft, buttery yellow blooms floated above the fine, thread like foliage and gave the whole bed such a light, airy feel. It quickly became a staple for me because it is so low maintenance and incredibly dependable. The foliage stays neat and tidy, the flowers just keep coming without constant deadheading, and even through our hot, dry stretches here in the South, Moonbeam never seems to lose its charm. It is easily one of the most reliable and rewarding perennials I have ever grown.
Characteristics of Coreopsis (Tickseed)
Coreopsis is a resilient and visually striking plant known for its vibrant, showy flowers and low-maintenance nature. Its adaptability to a wide range of conditions, including poor soils and drought, makes it a reliable favorite for gardeners of all skill levels. In addition to its ease of care, Coreopsis provides long-lasting color and attracts pollinators, making it a valuable addition to wildlife-friendly gardens, borders, and meadows.
Size and Growth Habit
Coreopsis plants really run the gamut when it comes to size, and that is part of what makes them so easy to design with. Most varieties land somewhere between 12 and 36 inches tall. Some stay compact and neatly mounded, while others stretch a bit taller and bring more presence to a planting. I love that flexibility because it means you can use Coreopsis almost anywhere. The shorter selections are perfect for edging a walkway, lining the front of a bed, or tucking into smaller garden pockets. Taller varieties step up nicely in the middle of a border, adding height and helping anchor lower growing companions without taking over the space.
As far as growth habit goes, Coreopsis usually forms tidy clumps or upright, well branched plants that keep their shape beautifully. They look structured but never stiff, which is a balance I always appreciate. That easy, relaxed form makes them simple to weave into mixed borders, cottage gardens, and even more natural meadow style plantings. The slender stems and airy foliage soften the overall design, allowing Coreopsis to blend right in with perennials and annuals instead of overpowering them.
Leaves and Flowers
When it comes to foliage, there is some nice variation depending on the species. Threadleaf types like Coreopsis verticillata have those fine, almost feathery leaves that give the plant a light texture. Others, such as Coreopsis grandiflora, carry broader, lance shaped leaves that feel a bit more substantial. In most cases, the foliage stays a pleasant green and acts as a quiet backdrop, letting the flowers do the talking. It adds texture without competing for attention.
The flowers are truly the star of the show. Coreopsis blooms in a wide range of colors, from classic creamy white and bright yellow to vibrant orange, deep red, soft pink, and eye catching bi color combinations. The daisy like blooms sit on tall, slender stems that sway gently in the breeze, adding movement and life to the garden. Many varieties bloom from early summer well into fall, and if you take the time to deadhead, you can encourage even more flowers. With that kind of performance, it is easy to see why Coreopsis earns its place in so many sunny gardens.
Is Coreopsis Annual or Perennial?
Coreopsis includes both annual and perennial varieties, providing options for different climates and garden needs. Perennial types, such as Coreopsis verticillata (Threadleaf Coreopsis) and Coreopsis grandiflora, are hardy in USDA Hardiness Zones 4–9 and return reliably year after year, often spreading gently to fill spaces.
Annual varieties, like Coreopsis tinctoria (Plains Coreopsis), complete their life cycle in one growing season but are highly valued for their ability to self-seed, creating naturalized drifts of color in wildflower gardens. This duality makes Coreopsis a versatile plant that can adapt to various gardening styles and climates.
Best Varieties of Coreopsis (Tickseed)
Over the years, we have grown and evaluated a wide range of Coreopsis, and these selections have truly risen to the top in our trials. They have proven themselves for strong structure, nonstop blooming, heat tolerance, and overall reliability in real garden conditions. If you want the very best, trial tested Coreopsis varieties that perform season after season, these are the ones we confidently recommend.
Coreopsis ‘Double the Sun’
The showstopper of the group, ‘Double the Sun’ is prized for its fully double, ruffled golden-yellow blooms that bring bold texture and visual weight to the garden. Unlike simpler daisy forms, this variety feels lush and ornamental, making it especially effective in prominent beds, larger containers, or anywhere you want strong color impact. Its sturdy growth habit supports the heavy blooms well, and the saturated yellow reads clearly from a distance, delivering that classic summer look with extra drama.
Coreopsis ‘Early Sunrise’
A classic, no-nonsense Coreopsis, 'Early Sunrise’ excels in reliability and versatility. Its bright yellow, daisy-like flowers and tidy perennial form make it an easy fit in mixed borders, perennial beds, and traditional garden designs. Blooming heavily over a long period, it provides consistent color without looking overworked or flashy. This is the variety gardeners reach for when they want dependable performance, clean flower form, and timeless appeal that blends effortlessly with other plants.
Coreopsis ‘Moonbeam’
‘Moonbeam’ is one of the most beloved Coreopsis varieties thanks to its soft, pale lemon-yellow blooms and fine, threadleaf foliage. It brings an airy, graceful quality to plantings, making it ideal for cottage gardens, pollinator beds, and naturalistic designs where subtlety matters. Rather than demanding attention, ‘Moonbeam’ weaves gently through companion plants, offering long-lasting color that feels light, refined, and never overpowering. Its extended bloom season and graceful habit make it a true garden workhorse with an elegant touch.
Coreopsis ‘Nana’
Known for for its compact size and disciplined growth habit, Nana Coreopsis is perfect for front-of-border plantings, edging, and small garden spaces. It forms neat, low mounds topped with cheerful yellow blooms, delivering classic coreopsis color in a highly controlled footprint. This variety excels where taller coreopsis might feel too large or loose, offering definition and structure without sacrificing bloom power. ‘Nana’ is especially valuable in tight designs where clean lines and scale matter.
Permathread™ Series
A more modern take on Coreopsis, the Permathread™ Series represents acombining threadleaf foliage with refined, nontraditional colors. ‘Red Satin’ delivers rich, deep red tones with strong contrast and a sleek, contemporary feel, while ‘Shades of Rose’ offers a softer blend of rose and pink hues that feels romantic and design-forward. Both varieties bloom continuously, maintain a light, airy habit, and bring a curated color palette to gardens that already have plenty of yellow. They are ideal choices for gardeners looking to elevate their plantings with something fresh, polished, and distinctive.
How to Grow & Care for Coreopsis (Tickseed)
Coreopsis is one of those easygoing, sun loving plants that gives you months of color without asking for much in return. I recommend it all the time to gardeners who want dependable blooms but do not want to fuss over every little detail. It handles heat, tolerates drought once established, and adapts beautifully to borders, wildflower gardens, and even containers. With just a few simple care habits, you can enjoy a cheerful display that carries you through the season.
Planting Coreopsis
When it comes to planting, you can sow Coreopsis seeds directly outdoors in early Spring once the danger of frost has passed. If you are eager to get a jump on the season, you can also start seeds indoors about six to eight weeks beforehand. Be sure to space plants about 12 to 18 inches apart so they have good airflow and room to fill out. Crowding is one of the quickest ways to invite disease, so a little breathing room goes a long way.
Sunlight Requirements
Coreopsis truly shines in full sun. It needs about six to eight hours of direct sunlight each day to bloom at its very best. While it may tolerate a little afternoon shade, you will notice fewer flowers if it is tucked into a dim corner. In gardens where light shifts throughout the day, I always place Coreopsis in the brightest spot I can find. That is what keeps those daisy like blooms vibrant and coming on strong all season.
Soil Requirements
When it comes to soil, Coreopsis prefers it well drained above all else. It actually handles sandy or even rocky soils beautifully, which makes it a great choice for tougher areas of the yard. While it can survive in lean soil, working in a little compost at planting time helps boost overall vigor and flower production. A neutral to slightly acidic soil works best, and I always caution folks about heavy clay. Clay holds too much moisture, and Coreopsis does not like sitting in wet feet.
Watering Needs
Watering is simple once the plant is established. During the first few weeks after planting, give it regular water to help those roots settle in. After that, it becomes impressively drought tolerant and only needs supplemental watering during extended dry spells. In fact, overwatering is more of a problem than underwatering. If the soil stays consistently wet, you can run into root issues. A light layer of mulch helps conserve moisture and keeps soil temperatures more even, especially during our hotter stretches.
Fertilizer Needs
Coreopsis is not a heavy feeder, which is another reason I appreciate it. At planting time, a balanced slow release fertilizer is more than enough to get it going. During the growing season, a light monthly feeding can encourage extra blooms if your soil is on the poorer side. Just be careful not to overdo it. Too much fertilizer leads to lots of leafy growth and fewer flowers, and we grow Coreopsis for those blooms.
Pruning & Maintenance
As for maintenance, a little attention goes a long way. I recommend deadheading spent flowers regularly to keep the plant producing new buds instead of setting seed. If things start to look a bit tired in midsummer, you can shear the plant back by about one third. That usually sparks fresh growth and a second round of blooms. At the end of the season, perennial varieties can be cut back to the ground, or you can leave them standing for winter interest and to provide a bit of shelter for beneficial insects.
Overwintering
Perennial Coreopsis varieties are tough and are hardy in USDA Zones 4 through 9. Once established, they need very little help to make it through Winter. In colder climates, I recommend adding a two to three inch layer of mulch around the base in late fall to help insulate the roots from repeated freeze and thaw cycles. Annuals will fade after the first hard frost, but do not be surprised if they reseed and pop back up the following season.
Common Pests
Coreopsis is generally pest resistant, which is another reason I rely on it so heavily. That being said, you might occasionally see aphids, spider mites, or whiteflies show up. A strong spray of water can knock many of them off, and insecticidal soap or neem oil works well if pressure builds. In my experience, healthy plants grown in the right conditions rarely have serious pest problems. Good air circulation and proper watering habits go a long way.
Common Diseases
There are a few diseases to watch for, though they are not common when plants are spaced and watered properly. Powdery mildew can appear in humid conditions and shows up as a white coating on the leaves. Giving plants enough space for airflow and avoiding overhead watering helps prevent it. Root rot is usually the result of poorly drained soil or too much water, which is why I always emphasize well draining conditions. Leaf spot can also occur, and removing affected foliage along with keeping water off the leaves helps keep it in check.
Common Mistakes
One of the most common mistakes I see is overwatering. Coreopsis prefers to be on the slightly drier side once established, and constantly wet soil can weaken the plant over time. Planting in heavy shade is another issue, since fewer hours of sun mean fewer blooms. Skipping deadheading can also slow down flower production. A little regular attention keeps the plant looking fresh and full.
Common Misconceptions
There are also a few misconceptions that come up often. Some people assume Coreopsis only thrives in warm climates, but many perennial varieties are quite cold hardy and perform beautifully in Zones 4 through 9. Others worry that Tickseed is invasive. While it can reseed, most varieties are well behaved and easy to manage. And despite what some believe, Coreopsis does not have a short bloom window. With proper care and occasional cleanup, it can flower steadily from early Summer straight through Fall.
Using Coreopsis in the Garden
Coreopsis is one of those plants that fits almost anywhere you need sun, color, and life. Its bright, daisy like blooms and long flowering season make it incredibly useful in borders, naturalized areas, and pollinator plantings. Whether you are building a formal border or a relaxed meadow style space, Coreopsis brings dependable color and a light texture that softens the whole design.
Pollinator-Friendly Gardens
If you are trying to support pollinators, Coreopsis is an easy win. Bees and butterflies are drawn to its nectar rich blooms, and because it flowers for such a long stretch, it provides a steady food source from early summer well into fall. Coreopsis pairs with other Perennials, I love incorporating it with other pollinator-friendly perennials to create a lively planting that hums with activity.
When you combine Coreopsis with other pollinator favorites like Bee Balm and Milkweed, the planting feels vibrant, layered, and alive while still looking completely natural. Each of these plants brings something different to the table, from tall spiky blooms to bold clusters of color, and together they create a steady buffet for bees, butterflies, and even hummingbirds. What I especially appreciate is that Coreopsis handles heat and drought beautifully once established, so you can build a wildlife friendly space that thrives in full sun without turning into a high maintenance project.
Mixed Perennial Plantings
Coreopsis absolutely shines in mixed perennial plantings. Those bright, daisy like blooms bring an instant burst of energy that wakes up a bed and ties everything together. I love pairing it with ornamental grasses like fountain grass or blue fescue because the soft movement of the grass plays so nicely against the cheerful flowers. It also works beautifully alongside other sun lovers like Achillea and Agastache, creating that layered, collected look that feels full but not crowded.
What makes Coreopsis especially useful is its tidy, upright or gently clumping habit. It adds structure without becoming stiff, and the vibrant blooms pop against softer foliage textures around it. Because it flowers for such a long stretch, it keeps borders looking lively well after some other perennials have slowed down. In my experience, that kind of continuity is what makes a garden feel thoughtfully designed instead of fleeting.
Garden Borders
Coreopsis feels right at home in a garden border. Its tidy, mounding habit helps fill in open spaces, and those bright, cheerful blooms create a steady ribbon of color that carries the eye from one end of the bed to the other. I love how it keeps the border looking connected and intentional from early summer well into fall, instead of having color come and go in patches. It also plays so nicely with other sun loving plants. The drought tolerance is a huge bonus, especially in hot, sunny borders where other plants might struggle.
Coreopsis Lights Up Gardens
Looking to grow Coreopsis in your garden? At Garden Delivery, we offer top-quality Coreopsis plants, loved for their cheerful, daisy-like blooms and long-lasting performance. These sun-loving perennials light up garden beds with bright yellow, gold, pink, or red blooms from early summer through fall, attracting pollinators and bringing continuous color with minimal effort. Coreopsis thrives in hot, dry conditions and is perfect for borders, wildflower gardens, and cottage-style landscapes.