Moreno

Black-eyed Susan

Zone 12b Save Garden

🌱 90d to harvest Upright

Velvety petals in rich, sun-warmed gold flare outward from a near-black, velvety center—Moreno’s Black-eyed Susan is a bold, high…

Crop Dates

Milestone	Date
Start Indoors	Oct 23rd
Last Frost	Jan 1st
Transplant / Sow Outdoors	Dec 25th
Harvest Begins	Mar 25th
Harvest Ends	Dec 31st

Crop Details

Trait	Value
Days to Maturity	90
Sun Requirements	Full Sun
Growth Habit	Upright
Support Needed	None
Planting Depth	Normal
Germination Temp (°F)	70
Min Soil Temp (°F)	45
Min Night Temp (°F)	35
Harden Off (days)	7

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Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the most common disease problem for Rudbeckia hirta (black-eyed Susan) and how do I treat it?

Rudbeckia hirta commonly gets powdery mildew in humid, still conditions. Start by improving airflow—space plants about 12–18 inches apart and avoid overhead watering—then spray with an appropriate fungicide labeled for powdery mildew if symptoms spread. Remove and discard heavily infected leaves early so the mildew doesn’t build up across the season.

How often should I water Rudbeckia hirta during its main growing phase?

During active growth (from when plants are established until flowering), water deeply about 1 inch per week, adjusting for rain. Let the top 1–2 inches of soil dry between waterings to prevent crown and root issues, since Rudbeckia prefers evenly moist but not soggy soil. In hotter weather, you may need more frequent watering, but always check soil dryness first.

How can I tell when Rudbeckia hirta is ready to harvest?

Harvest seed when the flower heads turn brown and dry, and the “black-eyed” center has matured into firm seeds that loosen easily when you rub the head. For fresh cut flowers, pick blooms when the ray petals are fully expanded and the central disk is still fairly firm and bright. By around 90 days from sowing under good conditions, plants should be in consistent bloom and seed-head development.

Velvety petals in rich, sun-warmed gold flare outward from a near-black, velvety center—Moreno’s Black-eyed Susan is a bold, high-contrast bloom that seems to glow even on hazy days. The flowers hold a sturdy, slightly tousled texture with a classic daisy silhouette, making them especially striking in mass plantings and long-lasting in the garden. Expect dependable color through the growing season as this biennial-to-perennial performer settles in and returns with confidence year after year.

Sowing Tips

Transplant Conditions

Wait until soil reaches 45°F and nights stay above 35°F before moving outdoors. Harden off for 7 days first.

Expert Note

For Rudbeckia (including shorter/tidy forms like ‘Moreno’), aim for steady growth before transplanting and avoid transplanting into cold, wet soil.