Plants that make up the Solidago genus are hardy perennials that range in height from 60 cm to 2.4 m (2 to 8 feet tall).
They bloom in summer through to early august, when they carry spikes of minute yellow flowers.
Solidago rugosa - Fireworks Goldenrod by F. D. Richards.
One of the most common names for Solidago is Golden Rod.
Solidago canadensis (Canada Goldenrod), photograph by Forest and Kim Starr; CC.
Solidago gigantea (Tall Goldenrod / Giant Goldenrod), photograph by yewchan; CC.
Solidago caesia (Woodland Goldenrod / Blue-stemmed Goldenrod / Wreath Goldenrod), picture by Eliza Barrett; CC.
When growing Solidago plant species such as Golden Rod outdoors from seed, then either sow before the last frost of spring or towards the end of autumn.
Once sown, lightly cover the golden rod seeds. They can be grown in either sunny or partially shaded parts of the garden, this should have good drainage.
Ideally the soil that plants grow in will be acidic to neutral (pH 5 to 7), and moist.
If starting off Solidago plants indoors, then do so about seven weeks in advance. The seeds will take about two to eight weeks to germinate at a temperature of 10 degrees centigrade (50°F).
The plants should be put outdoors in either late autumn or just before the last frost of spring. Solidago plants should be spaced at 30 cm (12 inches; small Solidago varieties) or 60 cm to 1 m (2 to 3 feet; larger species).
It is fairly easy to care for Solidago. They are tall plants, so provide a stake. Water them frequently to keep soil moist. Deadhead flowers before they have a chance to set seed. Cut back to the ground in autumn.
It is suggested to divide the plants every three years or so to maintain vigorous growth.
If you require more plants, and do not want to grow from seed, then they can be propagated through division in the spring.
I hope that you enjoyed this guide on how to grow Solidago plants. You may also enjoy the following Gardener's HQ growing guides: How to grow Townsendia, Cornus kousa, Yucca rostrata, and Ageratum plants.