Back to blog

Share

Black-Eyed Susan (Rudbeckia) Care Instructions

by Lawson Thalmann

For over 100 years, Chalet has been the trusted go-to destination for Chicagoland gardeners. Our horticultural experts have crafted care instructions with the unique characteristics of our local soil and weather in mind, so that you can feel confident helping your plants flourish.

Planting

Location:


Black-Eyed Susan thrives in full sun but can tolerate partial shade. It prefers well-drained soil, though it can adapt to a variety of soil types.

Spacing:


Space Black-Eyed Susan plants 18-24 inches apart to allow for good air circulation and to accommodate their clumping growth habit.

Watering


Water regularly during the first growing season to establish a deep root system. Once established, Black-Eyed Susan is drought-tolerant and only needs occasional watering during dry periods.

Fertilizing


Black-Eyed Susan typically does not require much fertilizer. If desired, apply a light dose of compost or a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in the spring to promote healthy growth.

Pruning


Deadhead spent flowers to encourage continuous blooming throughout the growing season. In late fall or early spring, cut back the stems to a few inches above the ground to tidy up the plant and prepare it for new growth.

Mulching


Apply a layer of mulch around the base of the plants to retain moisture, suppress weeds, and protect the roots during winter.

Example product title

$19.99

This area is used to describe your product’s details. Tell customers about the look, feel, and style of your product. Add details on color, materials used, sizing, and where it was made.

Plant Care Essentials

Sustainable Gardening

Sustainable Gardening

86 items

Soil + Mulch

Soil + Mulch

95 items

Fertilizers + Amendments

Fertilizers + Amendments

64 items

Sprinklers, Hoses + Watering Cans

Sprinklers, Hoses + Watering Cans

21 items

Gardening Tools

Gardening Tools

61 items

Lawson Thalmann

Lawson Thalmann

Vice President, Part-Owner, Sustainability Chair, CTO

Lawson represents the 4th generation of Thalmanns at Chalet. He currently heads up technology and sustainability efforts while also engaging the community through events like meditation and content like blog posts. He is passionate about helping the North Shore community engage with nature as a means for both physical and mental well being. He lives in Wilmette with his wife Kit and two children, Quinn and Lane.

©2025 Chalet Home + Garden. All content, including text, images, and designs, is the intellectual property of Chalet Home + Garden and may not be used or reproduced without written permission.