Mercury Rising Tickseed
Coreopsis tinctoria 'Mercury Rising'
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Perennial
Height
18 inches
Width
30 inches
Light
Full Sun, Partial Sun
Zones
5, 6, 7, 8, 9
Water
Low to moderate
Humidity
Average
Lifespan
Perennial
Native To
North America (parentage)
Toxicity
Non-toxic to humans and pets
The Story
Plant Bio
'Mercury Rising' is a clump-forming, herbaceous perennial featuring daisy-like flowers on wiry stems above fine, feathery foliage. This cultivar is prized for its continuous bloom of large, velvety, wine-red flowers from early summer to fall. It is sterile and does not self-seed, promoting a longer bloom period.
Uses & Benefits:
Marketplace
Where to Buy
Shipping costs Year-round shipping Free shipping
Planting
How to Grow
- Tuck seeds into well-drained soil in early spring for best germination.
- Mist cuttings with water and place in bright, indirect light for rooting.
- Water regularly but avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.
- Fertilize monthly with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer during growing season.
- Divide clumps in early spring or fall to promote healthy growth.
- Mulch around plants to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Pro Tip
Use well-draining soil and full sun for vibrant, long-lasting blooms.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water deeply during dry spells 🌱
- Deadhead spent flowers to encourage reblooming
- Apply a balanced fertilizer monthly during peak growth
Don't
- Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot ❌
- Don’t forget to mulch to conserve moisture
- Refrain from heavy pruning in late fall
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Deadhead | ||||||||||||
| Divide | ||||||||||||
| Fertilize | ||||||||||||
| Plant | ||||||||||||
| Spring Cleanup |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
Companion Plants
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Mercury Rising Tickseed questions
What zones can Mercury Rising Tickseed grow in?
Mercury Rising Tickseed is hardy in USDA Zones 5–9. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.
Is Mercury Rising Tickseed deer resistant?
Yes — Mercury Rising Tickseed is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.
When does Mercury Rising Tickseed bloom?
Mercury Rising Tickseed typically blooms in summer to fall through late summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Mercury Rising Tickseed need full sun?
Mercury Rising Tickseed does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.
Is Mercury Rising Tickseed drought tolerant?
Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Mercury Rising Tickseed handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.
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Keep exploring
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Hardy in your zone?
Grow Mercury Rising Tickseed with confidence
See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.
