SproutSmart
SproutSmart Intelligent Garden Sowing

Moreno

Black-eyed Susan

Planting Schedule

Add Moreno to your garden to build a schedule and get reminders.
Botanical illustration of Moreno
90d to harvest

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.

Crop Dates

MilestoneDate
Start IndoorsMar 6th
Last FrostMay 15th
Transplant / Sow OutdoorsMay 8th
Harvest BeginsAug 6th
Harvest EndsSep 1st

Crop Details

TraitValue
Days to Maturity90
Sun RequirementsFull SunFull sun
Growth HabitUpright
Support NeededNone
Planting DepthNormal
Germination Temp (°F)70
Min Soil Temp (°F)45
Min Night Temp (°F)35
Harden Off (days)7

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 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.
Botanical illustration of Moreno

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.