Achillea millefolium

Sowing and growing guidance

Achillea millefolium seeds germinate in light: surface-sow under cover before last frost and keep moist but not wet in bright conditions. Transplant after frost risk passes, or direct sow outdoors after last frost; in mild-winter climates, autumn sowing may establish strong clumps. Choose a well-drained, lean to moderately fertile soil in full sun, with light shade tolerated. Water lightly until established, then allow soil to dry between waterings; plants handle dry spells better than soggy conditions. Provide moderate spacing to encourage airflow for the medium-tall habit. Deadhead to extend flowering and reduce unwanted self-seeding, and cut back after flowering to tidy plants and encourage fresh foliage.

• Surface-sow; provide light for germination, press gently and avoid covering the seed.
• Keep evenly moist for emergence, then avoid overfeeding and overwatering on lean, free-draining soil.
• Allow moderate spacing for airflow; deadhead regularly to prolong display and manage self-seeding.
• Suitable for containers if drainage is excellent and crowns are kept above saturated compost.
• Flowers are attractive to a range of pollinating insects.
• Ornamental, with fine foliage and flat-topped blooms that suit borders and naturalistic plantings.

How do I grow Achillea millefolium from seed?

Achillea millefolium seeds are straightforward to raise if given light, drainage and moderate warmth. Start under cover before the last frost in shallow trays or modules filled with a free-draining mix. Surface-sow or very lightly sprinkle vermiculite; the seeds need light to germinate, so do not bury them. Keep evenly moist, bright and ventilated. Transplant sturdy seedlings after frost risk has passed into well-drained soil in full sun, spacing as below. In suitable climates, autumn sowing under cover or in situ can establish rosettes for earlier flowering the following year.

When should I sow yarrow seeds?

Yarrow can be started under cover several weeks before the last frost, provided there is good light. Move seedlings outside once frost risk has passed. For direct sowing, wait until after the last frost when soil is workable and warming; rake to a fine tilth, surface-sow, firm gently and keep moist until emergence. In mild-winter climates, autumn sowing is also feasible, allowing young plants to establish cool-season roots ahead of spring growth. Avoid sowing into cold, waterlogged ground, which delays germination and increases losses.

What is the best soil and sun for Achillea millefolium?

Achillea millefolium thrives in full sun and tolerates light shade. It prefers well-drained, lean to moderately fertile soils and copes well with dry conditions once established. Gritty or sandy loams suit it well, and overly rich soils can encourage floppy growth. Consistently wet or compacted soils increase the risk of rot, especially in colder seasons. A neutral to slightly alkaline pH is acceptable, but the plant is adaptable across a broad range provided drainage and sunlight are adequate.

What are some yarrow seed germination tips?

For reliable germination, provide bright light, gentle warmth and even moisture. Surface-sow and avoid covering the seed; a fine dusting of vermiculite can help retain humidity while still admitting light. Maintain good airflow to reduce damping-off, and water from below or mist lightly to avoid displacing the seeds. Typical germination occurs in roughly 1–3 weeks in warm, bright conditions. Prick out when the seedlings have true leaves, handling by the leaves rather than stems, and harden off gradually before planting out.

Is yarrow good for pollinators and meadow plantings?

Yes. Yarrow’s flat, nectar-rich umbels attract a wide range of pollinators, including bees, hoverflies and butterflies, and its long blooming window makes it valuable in wildlife-friendly spaces. As a perennial suited to lean soils, it integrates well into meadow-style plantings with drought-tolerant grasses and sun-loving perennials. Plants may self-seed and can also spread slowly by rhizomes; deadheading reduces volunteer seedlings, while leaving some seed heads offers structure and a natural look through the colder months.

How tall does yarrow grow, and can it be grown in containers? (Spacing and care)

Most Achillea millefolium selections reach about 40–80 cm tall, sometimes taller in fertile soils. In beds, space plants roughly 30–45 cm apart to allow airflow and reduce flopping; lean soils and full sun promote sturdier growth. In containers, choose a pot with ample drainage and a gritty, free-draining medium, then position in full sun. Water sparingly once established and avoid heavy feeding. Cut back after the first flush to encourage further bloom, and divide clumps every few years to maintain vigour. Flower heads are suitable for fresh cutting and drying when most florets are open.

This site provides general growing guidance based on common horticultural practice. Conditions vary by microclimate, soil texture and fertility, drainage, exposure, and seasonal patterns, so timing and techniques may require adjustment. Product pages include precise, variety‑specific directions such as sowing depth, spacing, and timing suited to each item. These recommendations should be interpreted in light of local weather, soil moisture, and temperature.

Growing Yarrow from Seed

Achillea millefolium, commonly known as yarrow, is a resilient perennial valued for feathery foliage and long-lasting flower heads. For best results, sow seeds indoors 6–8 weeks before the last frost, or direct sow when soil is workable; in mild climates autumn sowing may be possible. Surface sow and press gently, as light aids germination. Maintain even moisture without waterlogging. Germination typically takes 10–21 days at moderate temperatures. Transplant or thin to 25–40 cm spacing. Choose a sunny position with well-drained, moderately fertile soil; overly rich conditions can encourage floppy growth. Once established, plants tolerate dry spells and need minimal feeding. Deadhead to prolong the display, and shear lightly after the first flush to keep clumps compact. Yarrow can spread; divide or remove offsets to manage vigor. Suitable for mixed borders, naturalistic plantings, and cutting gardens, it pairs well with grasses and other drought-tolerant perennials while providing reliable seasonal colour and interest.