Also known as Tidy Tips · 52 saves
Layia
Layia, the genus most gardeners know as tidy tips. We track 3 varieties; the ones most used by real gardeners.
The 2 most-saved Layia varieties
Browse all 3 Layia varieties →
2 species of Layia
Each one is a parent of the varieties above.
Track your Layia in Sow
Save the Layia you grow and get care reminders timed to your zone.
How to grow Layia
Whats common across all Layia varieties in our catalog — drawn from the care records of the 3 most-grown of them.
The Layia year
- PlantFebruary, March, September and October100% of varieties
Sow seeds directly outdoors in early spring or late fall
- HarvestJune and July100% of varieties
Collect dried seed heads for sowing next season
Do
- Water consistently during dry spells 🌱
- Deadhead to extend flowering period
- Apply organic compost annually
- Water consistently during dry spells 💧
- Prune dead flowers to encourage more blooms ✂️
Avoid
- Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot ❌
- Don’t fertilize late in the season
- Do not disturb roots during flowering
- Overwater, which can cause root rot ❌
What goes wrong with Layia
| Problem | What you'll see | What to do |
|---|---|---|
| Aphids | Sticky residue and distorted leaves | Use insecticidal soap or neem oil |
| Spider mites | Fine webbing and speckled foliage | Spray with a strong jet of water or insecticidal soap |
| Spider Mites | Fine webbing on foliage | Use insecticidal soap or introduce predatory mites |
| Powdery mildew | White powder on leaves | Improve air circulation and apply sulfur fungicide |
| Root rot | Wilting and browning leaves | Ensure well-draining soil and reduce watering |
| Powdery Mildew | White powdery coating on leaves | Improve air circulation and apply sulfur fungicide |
Making more Layia
Seed
- Tuck seeds into moist soil in early spring, 6 weeks before last frost.
- Keep soil consistently moist until germination occurs.
- Thin seedlings to 12 inches apart after emergence.
Cuttings
- Take 4-inch stem cuttings in late spring.
- Dip cuttings in rooting hormone and plant in moist soil.
- Maintain high humidity and mist regularly for 4-6 weeks.
Layia questions
How many types of Layia are there?
The Sow catalog tracks 3 distinct Layia varieties. The most popular — ranked by 52 real gardeners — are shown first above.
What zones does Layia grow in?
Across its varieties, Layia covers USDA Zones 5–8. Individual varieties differ — each plant page lists its exact range, and Sow filters the catalog to your zone automatically.
When does Layia bloom?
Most Layia varieties bloom in early summer, late spring. Staggering early, mid, and late varieties extends the genus's season in one bed.
Which Layia should I choose?
Start from the most-saved varieties above — popularity across thousands of gardens is a strong signal of reliability — then filter by your zone and sun. In the Sow app you can preview any of them in a photo of your actual yard before you buy.