The Benefits Of The Stunning Wildflower Joanna Gaines Grows In Her Garden

Joanna Gaines, star of "Fixer Upper" and its spinoffs, has a love of flowers that is no secret. While some of the flowers she has shown off in her Instagram tour of her garden, like lisianthus, are notoriously challenging to grow, others are perfect for even beginner flower gardeners. Yarrow (Achillea millefolium), which Gaines has made space for in her garden for several years now, isn't just easy to grow and take care of, it's also a hit with pollinators and is just as beautiful dried as it is fresh.

There is some debate over whether yarrow is native to North America or was introduced by Europeans; however, it is now considered a naturalized native plant and is often seen growing wild throughout its range of USDA zones 3 through 9. In addition to making an excellent cut and dried flower and a perfect addition to drought-tolerant pollinator gardens, yarrow is also sometimes used as a turfgrass alternative for lawns that don't get too much foot traffic. Its pretty, fern-like foliage even has a pleasant scent. Just be sure to wear gloves and long sleeves when working with yarrow, as it can cause contact dermatitis and photosensitivity in some people.

Yarrow can be purchased from seed in a variety of colors and shades, from bold reds and yellows, to whites, and subtle pastels. It can also be purchased as a bareroot plant for those who prefer to skip the seed-starting process. Be sure to choose taller cultivars if you are growing yarrow for cut flowers, as it can come in a variety of heights. If you opt to start yarrow from seed, remember that light is required for germination, and don't forget to harden off your young plants when moving them outside.

Once you are ready to plant your yarrow seedlings in your garden be sure to pick a full sun location with well-draining soil. Soggy soil tends to lead to shorter lifespans for yarrow plants as they can succumb to root rot. Don't worry too much about fertilizing your yarrow as it actually thrives in soil with poor fertility. It is also quite drought tolerant once it is established. Don't worry too much about protecting your plants from rabbits or deer either, as neither species is fond of the taste of yarrow and generally leave it alone. 

If you, like Joanna Gaines, are a fan of dried flowers, yarrow is a must have in your garden as it dries beautifully with little effort. Whether you dry it in a whimsical backyard flower drying shed like Gaines or opt for a smaller set up in a closet or corner of a backroom, yarrow's ability to keep its color and shape makes it a go-to for fans of dried flower arranging. Of course, yarrow is just as beautiful fresh in bouquets as it is dried.

Even if you don't grow yarrow for drying or making bouquets, it's still a great addition to landscapes. Thanks to its drought tolerance and love of sun, yarrow makes a perfect companion flower to grow near lavender in your garden. Yarrow also adds movement and interest to perennial borders and pollinator gardens thanks to its delicate foliage and its flowers' ability to attract ladybugs, bees, and other beneficial insects.