Agastache Sunrise Red Improved Seeds

Agastache Sunrise Red Improved is a stunning variety of Agastache, also known as "Hyssop," celebrated for its rich, red blooms and aromatic foliage. This improved cultivar is designed for greater resilience and longer-lasting color, making it an excellent choice for garden beds, pollinator gardens, and containers. It's known for attracting hummingbirds, butterflies, and bees, enhancing the vibrancy of any garden space while promoting biodiversity.

Key Benefits

• Vibrant Red Flowers: The flowers of Agastache Sunrise Red Improved bloom in a beautiful, deep red, adding a bold pop of color to your garden.
• Pollinator-Friendly: Attracts hummingbirds, butterflies, and bees, making it perfect for pollinator gardens.
• Improved Disease Resistance: The improved variety offers enhanced resistance to common garden pests and diseases, ensuring robust growth.
• Aromatic Foliage: Its fragrant leaves have a minty aroma, offering an additional sensory element when brushed.
• Drought Tolerant: Once established, this plant is highly drought-resistant, requiring minimal water.
• Long Bloom Period: Blooms from summer to fall, providing months of vibrant color and fragrance.
• Compact Growth Habit: Reaches a manageable height, making it ideal for smaller gardens or containers.

Variety Features

• Flower Color: Rich, deep red flowers that form dense, spike-like clusters.
• Flower Shape: Tubular flowers that attract pollinators with their vibrant hue.
• Plant Height: Grows to about 18-24 inches (45-60 cm) tall with a similar spread.
• Bloom Time: From mid-summer to fall, offering extended periods of colorful blooms.
• Foliage: Aromatic, mint-scented leaves that complement the vivid flowers.
• Improvement: This variety has been specifically bred for enhanced disease resistance and improved blooming performance.

Planting Instructions

Best Planting Season

• Spring or Fall: For best results, plant Agastache Sunrise Red Improved in spring after the last frost, or in the fall to allow the seeds to establish before winter.

Ideal Location

• Light Requirements: Prefers full sun, though it can tolerate light shade. It thrives in sunny spots where it can get at least 6 hours of sunlight each day.
• Soil Requirements: Best grown in well-drained, slightly acidic to neutral soil. Loamy or sandy soil is ideal, ensuring good drainage.

Planting Details

• Seed Depth: Lightly press the seeds into the soil or surface sow. Do not cover the seeds, as they require light to germinate.
• Spacing: Space plants 12-18 inches (30-45 cm) apart to give them room to grow and ensure proper airflow.
• Watering: Keep the soil moist until the seeds germinate, but avoid waterlogging. Once established, the plant is drought-tolerant and requires minimal watering.

Care Instructions

Watering

• Water regularly during dry spells, especially when young. Once the plant is established, it is highly drought-tolerant and needs only occasional watering.

Fertilizing

• Fertilize in early spring with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer. Too much fertilizer can lead to excessive foliage growth at the expense of blooms, so use sparingly.

Pruning

• Deadhead spent flowers to encourage continuous blooming. In late fall or early spring, trim back the plant to promote healthy new growth.

Harvesting

• Flowers: Cut flower spikes when they are fully bloomed. Place in water immediately to enjoy fresh in arrangements.
• Seeds: After the flowering season, allow the plant to set seeds. Collect them when they dry and store in a cool, dry place for future planting.

Storage

• Seed Storage: Store collected seeds in an airtight container in a cool, dry location. Keep them away from moisture and heat to maintain their viability.

Culinary Uses

• While Agastache is primarily ornamental, its leaves can be used in teas, as flavoring for desserts, or in savory dishes. The flavor is minty with subtle licorice notes, making it a versatile herb for culinary use.

Conclusion

Agastache Sunrise Red Improved is a remarkable addition to any garden. Its vibrant red blooms, pollinator-friendly nature, and aromatic foliage make it a standout. With its improved disease resistance and drought tolerance, it thrives in various garden settings, from ornamental beds to pollinator gardens. Whether you are looking to attract hummingbirds or simply add bold color and fragrance to your garden, this cultivar will surely enhance your outdoor space.