How to Take Care of Daisy Flowers
Daisies are a classic, beloved garden flower. They brighten up any yard and can be enjoyed for many years with proper care and cultural practices. Considered a perennial (in very cold regions, some varieties are considered annuals), daisy flowers are fairly easy to grow. Although there are many varieties of daisies there are some basic care tips that apply to most. The Anglo-Saxon origin of the word daisy is "daes eage," meaning "day's eye" because of the fact that daisy's blossoms open right at the beginning of the day. They are a symbol of purity and innocence. Does this Spark an idea?
Other People Are Reading
Things You'll Need
- Daisy seeds or transplants
- Nutrient-rich soil
- Mulch
- General purpose fertilizer
- Hand shovel or spade
- Water
Instructions
-
-
1
Choose an area that receives full sun exposure. Clear away any weeds and loosen up the soil with a hand shovel or a spade.
-
2
Use organically rich, well-drained soil and mix in about 4 inches of compost. Plant transplants or sow the daisy seeds yourself. Space them 9 to 12 inches apart and lightly pack more soil over them. Add about an inch of mulch to retain moisture and to prevent weeds. Water thoroughly.
-
-
3
Water regularly; if you planted seeds they will need to be watered more frequently (possibly twice a day) until they germinate, particularly if you live in a dry, hot region.
-
4
Add a general purpose fertilizer early in the growth stage, or about two weeks after the seeds have germinated. At the beginning of every spring season add more mulch and fertilizer.
-
5
Control pests by spraying them with a strong stream of water or hand-picking them off. Daisies usually don't have major issues with pests but if necessary you can use an insecticide on them.
-
6
Remove and discard any diseased areas immediately. Treat with a fungicide if the problem becomes persistent.
-
7
Cut stems down after the first frost in the fall, leaving approximately an inch of stem above the soil line. Adding a thick layer of mulch will help protect your daisies over the winter season.
-
1
Tips & Warnings
Dig up and replant your daisies about every three years if they are planted in an area where they can't grow undisturbed for several years.
English daisies are a popular variety but they can spread quickly and become overbearing. In some regions in the northwest United States they are even considered a weed. If you choose to grow English daisies you can control their growth by removing any unwanted plants.
Daisy leaves are an edible green that can be enjoyed in salads.
References
Resources
- Photo Credit daisies image by timur1970 from Fotolia.com
