Chocolate Flower, or Chocolate Daisy, is a native wildflower with bright yellow petals. It is known for having a scent reminiscent of cocoa, which is particularly strong in the morning. Chocolate Flower grows as a perennial, and is resistant to deer.

Chocolate Flower can be planted directly outdoors after all frost danger has passed, or started indoors 6-8 weeks before the last expected frost.

Chocolate Flower grows best in full sun, and tolerates average to poor soil as long as it drains well.

• If starting indoors, sow seeds into trays or small pots 8-10 weeks before the last expected frost. Use a good seed-starter mix for soil.
• If sowing outdoors, first prepare a seedbed by weeding and breaking up soil.
• Surface sow 2-3 seeds per plant, and barely cover with soil.
• Keep seeds moist and maintain a temperature of 60F-70F degrees until germination. Patience is needed, as germination can take anywhere from 2 weeks to 3 months.
• Once seedlings have their first sets of true leaves, thin to strongest seedling and plant 1-2 feet apart in the garden.
• Before transplanting seedlings into the garden, it's essential to "harden them off". This involves acclimating young plants to outdoor conditions by placing them in a sheltered outdoor area for about a week. Initially, shield them from strong winds and direct sunlight. If there's a risk of frost overnight, either cover the plants or bring them indoors, then return them outside in the morning. This hardening off method helps strengthen the plant's cell structure, minimizing transplant shock and sun damage.

• Keep weeds under control during the growing season. Weeds compete with plants for water, space and nutrients, so control them by either cultivating often or use a mulch to prevent their seeds from germinating.
• Mulches play a vital role in preserving soil moisture and ensuring consistent soil temperatures. When it comes to annuals, using organic mulch made from shredded leaves not only enhances the appearance of the bed but also enriches the soil as it decomposes over time. Remember to keep mulch away from the plant stems to avoid potential rot issues.
• Water regularly to encourage blooming, but don't allow soil to become soggy, as this can cause root rot.
• Chocolate Flower doesn't require fertilization, but add compost prior to planting if soil is poor.
• Deadhead spent flowers to encourage further blooming, or allow them to go to seed to attract birds.
• Before winter, prune these plants back by 1/3.