Potentilla fruticosa 'Little Pot of Gold'

• Attracts: Bees and butterflies are drawn to the bright yellow flowers for their nectar.
• Wildlife Resistant: Deer-resistant, making it a great choice for areas with deer activity.

• Foliage Season: Spring to fall (deciduous).
• Flowering Season: Early summer to fall (June to September).
• Hardiness Zones: USDA Zones 3-7

• Borders and edging
• Rock gardens
• Mass plantings
• Xeriscaping (drought-tolerant landscapes)
• Container gardening

• Color: Bright green, fine-textured foliage.
• Form: Pinnate leaves, each consisting of 3 to 7 small, lance-shaped leaflets.
• Fall Interest: Leaves may take on a slight yellow hue before dropping in late fall.

• Color: Bright golden-yellow flowers.
• Form: Single, five-petaled blooms that resemble small buttercups, 1-2 inches in diameter.
• Bloom Time: Blooms profusely from early summer to fall, providing continuous color for up to four months.
• Fragrance: Not fragrant.

• Planting Time: Best planted in spring or fall for optimal establishment.
• Soil Requirements: Prefers well-drained soil but is highly adaptable to a wide range of soil types, including poor and rocky soils. Thrives in slightly acidic to neutral pH (6.0-7.0).
• Planting Depth: Plant at the same depth as in the nursery container, ensuring the root ball is level with the soil surface.
• Spacing: Space plants 1-2 feet apart to allow for mature growth and air circulation.

Pruning:

• Timing: Prune in late winter or early spring to maintain shape and encourage new growth.
• Method: Lightly prune to remove dead, damaged, or crossing branches. Deadhead spent flowers to encourage more blooms, though this is not strictly necessary for continuous flowering.

Watering Requirements:

• Watering Frequency: Water regularly during the first growing season to establish roots. Once established, Little Pot of Gold is drought-tolerant and requires only occasional watering.
• Soil Moisture: Prefers average to dry soil conditions. Avoid overwatering or waterlogged soil.

Light Requirements:

• Light Exposure: Thrives in full sun. At least 6 hours of direct sunlight is recommended for the best flowering performance.

– Harvest Season: Late summer to early fall (typically August to September)

– What to Harvest:

– Flowers: For fresh arrangements or drying

– Flower Harvesting Tips:

– Snip blooms when fully open and vibrant

– Use clean, sharp pruners in early morning for best freshness

– Place stems in water immediately if used decoratively

– Greenery Harvesting: Not commonly harvested, but small sprigs may be used for filler in arrangements

– Post-Harvest Use:

– Flowers: Use in short-term bouquets or press for crafts

Fertilizing:

• Fertilization Time: Fertilize in early spring as new growth begins.
• Fertilizer Type: Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer or organic compost to support healthy growth and abundant blooms.

• Mulching: Apply a 1-2 inch layer of mulch around the base to retain moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature. Keep mulch away from the crown to prevent rot.
• Drought Tolerance: Once established, Little Pot of Gold is highly drought-tolerant, making it ideal for xeriscaping and low-maintenance gardens.
• Pests and Diseases: Generally pest-free and resistant to most diseases. Proper air circulation and well-drained soil prevent any fungal issues.

Pollination:

• Pollination Type: Pollinated by bees and butterflies. Little Pot of Gold produces small seeds within its flowers, though it is primarily grown for its ornamental value.
• Seed Production: Flowers may produce small seeds if not deadheaded, but the plant is primarily ornamental.

• Salvia
• Coreopsis
• Lavandula (Lavender)
• Echinacea (Coneflower)