Expert: Mike Mascio - 8/30/2010

Question
I bought 2 of these vines a few months back and they were doing fine with lots of blooms and all of a sudden the leaves started to turn yellow and fall off and now there are very few blooms and very few leaves. I did try some fertilizer  to see if that would perk them up but nothing has happened. I water 3 times a week by hand. I tried more water and less water but nothing has helped......
Any help would be appreciated...thanks

Answer
Black-eyed susans need good drainage for healthy foliage and blooms. You didn't mention where you are from, but if your soil is composed primarily of clay, your drainage is most likely poor. This results in the roots literally being water-logged, which in turn prevents the roots from absorbing the nutrients needed for good growth.

I would recommend amending the soil with organic matter, including aged manure, peat, and compost. I would also mulch the plants with straw or shredded leaves to retain moisture and cool the soil. Once the plants recover, you want to only water to a depth of 1" per week. You also need to fertilize three times per year; once in early spring, again in early summer, and once more in early fall. Make sure to apply a fertilizer high in phosphorus and low in nitrogen. Most garden centers sell products specifically made for flowering perennials.

I hope this answered your question. Please write again if I can ever provide assistance.

Regards,

Mike