Post Views: 209 Discover how to grow and care for Yarrow (Achillea Millefolium). This guide covers planting, benefits, and uses for this hardy, pollinator-friendly perennial in your garden. I first planted yarrow in a neglected, sunny corner of my garden where nothing else seemed to thrive. To my surprise, it not only survived but flourished, becoming a hub of bee activity and a reliable source of cut flowers. This resilient perennial has been a garden favorite for centuries, and for good reason. Yarrow (Achillea millefolium) is a hardy, drought-tolerant perennial known for its feathery, aromatic foliage and flat-topped clusters of tiny flowers. It’s a versatile plant that serves many roles in the garden, from a groundcover to a pollinator magnet. Why You Should Grow Yarrow in Your Garden You should consider yarrow for three main benefits. It is incredibly tough and can handle poor soil and dry conditions once established. Its flowers attract beneficial insects like ladybugs, hoverflies, and parasitic wasps that prey on common garden pests. It also makes an excellent long-lasting cut or dried flower for arrangements. A Quick Overview of Yarrow Feature Description Common Name Yarrow, Common Yarrow, Milfoil, Nosebleed Plant Botanical Name Achillea millefolium Plant Type Herbaceous perennial Mature Size 2-3 ft. tall, similar spread Sun Exposure Full sun Soil Type Well-draining; tolerates poor, sandy, or clay soil Bloom Time Late spring to early fall Flower Color White, yellow, pink, red, coral Hardiness Zones USDA 3-9 How to Plant and Grow Yarrow Getting yarrow started in your garden is straightforward. You can plant it from seed, nursery starts, or by division. Planting from Seed You can sow yarrow seeds directly in your garden in the fall or early spring. Scatter the seeds on the soil surface and press them in lightly, as they need light to germinate. Keep the area moist until seedlings are established. You can also start seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before your last frost date. Planting from Transplants This is the fastest way to get established plants. Dig a hole as deep as the root ball and twice as wide. Place the plant in the hole, backfill with soil, and water it well. Space plants 1 to 2 feet apart to allow for their spreading habit. Caring for Your Yarrow Plants Yarrow is a low-maintenance plant, but a few simple care steps will keep it looking its best. How to Propagate Yarrow The easiest way to propagate yarrow is by division. Every 3 to 5 years, dig up a mature clump in early spring or fall. Use a sharp shovel or knife to split the root mass into several sections. Replant the divisions elsewhere in your garden or share them with friends. Division also helps rejuvenate older plants that may have a dead center. Common Problems and Solutions Yarrow is largely trouble-free, but you might encounter a few issues. Yarrow’s Uses in the Garden and Home Yarrow is more than just a pretty face. It has several practical uses. Final Thoughts Yarrow is a workhorse in the garden. Its toughness, beauty, and benefits to pollinators and soil health make it a plant I recommend to every gardener. Whether you need a groundcover for a tough spot, a flower for a pollinator garden, or a plant with historical significance, yarrow delivers. For more ideas on plants that support a healthy garden ecosystem, explore our article on pollinator gardening. Have you grown yarrow before? Share your experience in the comments below.