Picking coreopsis is a joyful way to spend a sunny afternoon—whether alone, savoring the quiet hum of nature, or with loved ones, turning it into a lively shared adventure. The bright, daisy-like blooms are easy to spot and even easier to pluck, their golden petals adding a splash of cheer to your basket. The act of choosing each stem feels like curating your own little bouquet of sunshine.
Once home, arrange them in a simple vase for a vibrant centerpiece, or dry a few stems upside down to preserve their color for wreaths or potpourri. For a herbal touch, steep the petals in hot water for a floral tea—lightly sweetened with honey, it’s a soothing sip of summer. Feeling creative? Muddle a handful of fresh petals into a citrusy cocktail:
- Coreopsis Sparkler
- 5-6 fresh coreopsis petals
- 1 oz gin
- ½ oz elderflower liqueur
- Top with sparkling water
- Shake petals and gin gently, strain, and serve over ice with a lemon twist.
If you’ve picked younger leaves (some varieties are edible), toss them into salads for a peppery bite, or fold them into herb butter to melt over grilled fish. The flowers make a lovely garnish for cakes or desserts—press them into frosting or freeze them in ice cubes for a pretty touch. However you use them, coreopsis brings a little wild, sunny charm indoors.