How to grow Tansy at home

Tansy(Tanacetum vulgare) is a perennial flowering plant in the aster family and native to temperate Europe and Asia region. The plant produces beautiful clusters of yellow flowers that are a great attraction to both people and insects. This article focuses on how to grow Tansy at home.

The word ‘Tansy’ comes from the Greek word ‘athanasia’ which means ‘immortlity’.

Essential

Soil composition and ph levels for Tansy

Soil composition and pH levels are important factors to consider when growing tansy. The ideal soil composition for tansy is a sandy loam with a pH level of 4.8 to 7.5.

Tansy prefers well-drained soils and does not tolerate wet or heavy soils. In terms of pH, tansy is tolerant of both acidic and alkaline soils. However, it does best in soils with a neutral pH.

Soil that is too acidic or too alkaline can cause the plant to become stunted or produce fewer flowers.

Considering these factors will help you create the ideal growing conditions for tansy.

Watering Tansy

Watering a Tansy plant is a simple process as long as you follow a few key steps.

First, make sure that the plant is adequately hydrated before you start watering.

Second, water the plant slowly and evenly, being careful not to over-water it.

Finally, allow the plant to drain before placing it back in its pot or garden.

By following these simple steps, you can ensure that your Tansy remains healthy and vibrant.

Does a Tansy plant produce flowers and fruit?

Yes, tansy plants produce small button-like flowers that are 1/4 to 1/2 inches wide and yellow in color. The flowers start to bloom from July to September. The plant itself is also known to have a distinct smell. The flowers smell more like roses.

Some also believe that the flowers smell more like some herbal medicine. Nonetheless, the association of Tansy with flowers is a strong one. The flowers turn into small dark brown seed heads in late summer and fall off. The plant reseeds from these seed heads.

But Tansy plants do not produce fruit.

Benefits of Tansy plants:

Tansy is thought to be useful in resolving problems related to the digestive tract and intestinal ulcers, certain gallbladder conditions, migraines, nerve and joint pain, and many other physical conditions. However, these claims are not medically proven. It is thought that using tansy might cause toxic effects.

There are also unconfirmed reports stating that tansy is unsafe if ingested by mouth. One of the important benefits of the plant is that Tansy is applied directly to the affected area in the body for scabies, itching, bruises, sores, sprains, swelling, freckles, inflammation, toothache, etc.

Further, the plant is used as a flavoring agent in foods and beverages. It is thought to repel ants cucumber beetles, Japanese beetles, squash bugs, and other flying insects. Hence tansy is very useful as a companion plant.

Where does the Tansy plant grow best?

Tansy plant grows best in full sun or partial shade. The plant requires well-draining fertile soil in an area that has very little already established vegetation. As the plant is a pest-repellant, it is mostly grown as a companion plant.

Tansy
Water	High water and nutrient retention capacity; maintain moisture levels.
Soil ph	4.8-7.5
Sunlight hours	Grows in full sun or partial shade;
Pests and Diseases	The camphor-scented plant repels pests and kills parasites and is used as a companion plants;
Temperature	The plant is winter hardy to -40 deg F.
Soil composition	It does best in fertile, well-drained soil and in area with little or no vegetation.