Solidago sphacelata ( Golden Fleece Goldenrod )

‘Golden Fleece’ is an easy to grow clumping perennial with branching shoots, performing best in average soil (not too fertile) and full sun. Leaves are narrow and lance-shaped, up to 12″ long. Fall flowers are golden yellow, held in 10″ long open panicles. Grows to 18″ tall and spreads 24″. Contrary to popular belief, golden rod does not cause sinus problem, rather another, less noticeable plant (ragweed) that blooms at the same time, is the culprit. Great with black-eyed susan, mexican sage or other salvias, autumn joy sedum and pennisetum.


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Characteristics

Cultivar: Golden Fleece  
Family: Asteraceae  
Size: Height: 0 ft. to 1.5 ft.
Width: 0 ft. to 2 ft.  
Plant Category: perennials,  
Plant Characteristics:  
Foliage Characteristics:  
Flower Characteristics: long lasting,  
Flower Color: yellows,  
Tolerances: deer, drought, heat & humidity, pollution, rabbits, seashore, slope, wind,  


Requirements


Bloomtime Range: Early Fall to Late Fall  
USDA Hardiness Zone: 5 to 9  
AHS Heat Zone: 6 to 9  
Light Range: Part Shade to Full Sun  
pH Range: 5 to 8  
Soil Range: Mostly Sand to Some Clay  
Water Range: Dry to Normal  





Plant Care

Fertilizing

How-to : Fertilization for Annuals and Perennials

Annuals and perennials may be fertilized using: 1.water-soluble, quick release fertilizers; 2. temperature controlled slow-release fertilizers; or 3. organic fertilizers such as fish emulsion. Water soluble fertilizers are generally used every two weeks during the growing season or per label instructions. Controlled, slow-release fertilizers are worked into the soil ususally only once during the growing season or per label directions. For organic fertilizers such as fish emulsion, follow label directions as they may vary per product.

Light

Conditions : Full Sun

Full Sun is defined as exposure to more than 6 hours of continuous, direct sun per day.

Watering

Conditions : Normal Watering for Outdoor Plants

Normal watering means that soil should be kept evenly moist and watered regularly, as conditions require. Most plants like 1 inch of water a week during the growing season, but take care not to over water. The first two years after a plant is installed, regular watering is important for establishment. The first year is critical. It is better to water once a week and water deeply, than to water frequently for a few minutes.

Planting

Problems

Fungi : Rusts

Most rusts are host specific and overwinter on leaves, stems and spent flower debris. Rust often appears as small, bright orange, yellow, or brown pustules on the underside of leaves. If touched, it will leave a colored spot of spores on the finger. Caused by fungi and spread by splashing water or rain, rust is worse when weather is moist.

Prevention and Control: Plant resistant varieties and provide maximum air circulation. Clean up all debris, especially around plants that have had a problem. Do not water from overhead and water only during the day so that plants will have enough time to dry before night. Apply a fungicide labeled for rust on your plant.

Fungi : Powdery Mildew

Powdery Mildew is usually found on plants that do not have enough air circulation or adequate light. Problems are worse where nights are cool and days are warm and humid. The powdery white or gray fungus is usually found on the upper surface of leaves or fruit. Leaves will often turn yellow or brown, curl up, and drop off. New foliage emerges crinkled and distorted. Fruit will be dwarfed and often drops early.

Prevention and Control: Plant resistant varieties and space plants properly so they receive adequate light and air circulation. Always water from below, keeping water off the foliage. This is paramount for roses. Go easy on the nitrogen fertilizer. Apply fungicides according to label directions before problem becomes severe and follow directions exactly, not missing any required treatments. Sanitation is a must - clean up and remove all leaves, flowers, or debris in the fall and destroy.

Diseases : Anthracnose

Anthracnose is the result of a plant infection, caused by a fungus, and may cause severe defoliation, especially in trees, but rarely results in death. Sunken patches on stems, fruit, leaves, or twigs, appear grayish brown, may appear watery, and have pinkish-tan spore masses that appear slime-like. On vegetables, spots may enlarge as fruit matures.

Prevention and Control: Try not to over water. If your climate is naturally rainy, grow resistant varieties. In the vegetable garden, stake and trellis plants to provide good air circulation so that plants may dry. Increase sunlight to plants by trimming limbs. Prune, remove, or destroy infected plants and remove all leaf debris. Select a fungicide that is labeled for anthracnose and the plant you are treating. Follow the label strictly.

Miscellaneous

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