Tetra White Matricaria is a frost-hardy feverfew cultivar that brings airy, prolific white blooms to gardens in zones 5 through 9. Growing 28 to 36 inches tall with a compact bush habit, this open-pollinated variety takes 100 to 110 days from seed to first flowers, rewarding patient gardeners with exceptional cut and dried flower material. Its similarity to the Magic series means reliable performance and productivity, making it a dependable choice for those seeking long-stemmed white flowers for arrangements.
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5-9
36in H x ?in W
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High
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The flowers emerge in abundance and remain perfect for cutting at the 3/4 open stage, or can be left to fully develop for drying. This cultivar handles fall planting particularly well, which Johnny's Selected Seeds recommends to achieve longer stems and earlier blooms than spring-sown plants. Its cold hardiness down to zone 5 paired with the ability to produce viable seed (open-pollinated status) makes it a self-perpetuating addition to gardens willing to let a few plants mature and reseed.
Tetra White Matricaria shines as a cut flower, harvested when the flower clusters reach three-quarters open for the freshest arrangements. Gardeners also dry the flowers by harvesting them nearly fully open and hanging them in a warm, dry space, preserving their bright white color for winter bouquets and crafts. The prolific bloom production means substantial material from a single planting.
No timeline data available yet for this variety.
Sow seeds 5 to 7 weeks before your planned transplant date, either in spring or fall. Gently press seeds into moist growing medium and do not cover them, as light aids germination. Bottom water or mist the seedbed to avoid displacing tiny seeds. Keep the germination environment between 55 and 70°F. Transplant seedlings into cell packs or 3 to 4 inch pots 2 to 4 weeks after sowing, then harden off by gradually exposing them to outdoor conditions before planting in the garden.
Transplant hardened-off seedlings outdoors after the risk of hard frost has passed in spring, or in early fall for fall plantings. Space plants 8 inches apart. For fall plantings, which Johnny's Selected Seeds recommends for longer stems and earlier blooms, transplant with enough time before frost so roots establish before winter.
For fresh cut flowers, harvest when the flower cluster reaches the three-quarter open stage, cutting stems in the early morning when they are fully hydrated. For dried flowers, wait until the cluster is almost fully open, then cut and hang bundles upside down in a warm, dry, well-ventilated space away from direct sunlight to preserve the white color.
No formal pruning is necessary for Tetra White Matricaria's bush growth habit. Deadheading spent flower clusters encourages continued blooming throughout the season, extending the harvest window. If plants become leggy or overgrown, pinching back shoots in early summer promotes bushier, more compact growth.
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