Sow seed in early spring and keep seedlings under cover until large enough to handle and pot on, then harden off after danger of frost has passed. Plant out in May. Perennial rudbeckias can be planted at any time of year. Dig a generous planting hole and add plenty of compost or leaf mould.

Technically it is a short-lived perennial, but it's often grown as an annual. Origin: 'Irish Eyes' is a selection of Rudbeckia hirta, which is a coneflower species native to western portions of North America.

Although they are a perennial or bienniel, they may not mature in time in your region to develop seeds. Be sure to question your garden center if they are sold as annuals and be aware that the Rudbeckia may or may not reseed in your garden. Or you can learn to collect and germinate seeds yourself.

Most should be sown some time between February and April. Seeds will take around 14-21 days to germinate. As the seedlings begin to grow they should be individually potted on or thinned to around 30cm apart. This is to allow them to become full and healthy plants by the time you come to plant them out in the autumn.. . . . .364011235118!]0000000000000009783314147554!]