How to Prune Argyranthemum Frutescens
Argyranthemum frutescens is a flowering subshrub often planted as an ornamental. The Argyranthemum frutescens, also known as the Marguerite daisy, is perhaps most prized for its blooming ability. Pink, yellow or apricot flowers (depending on the species) can be encouraged to bloom continually from spring to fall. But in order to bloom densely all season long, Argyranthemum frutescens needs periodic pruning. Stick to a regular pruning schedule and the plant will grow dense and bushy season after season.
Pinch off any long, leggy stems or stragglers that grow out of the side. Pinch the stem off back down to the leaf nearest an appropriate height (at the level of the rest of the stems). Pinching back in this manner will give the subshrub a more uniform shape and encourage bushy growth.
Prune any dead or diseased foliage 2 inches into healthy tissue. Check for diseased tissue once every two weeks or so. Deteriorating foliage attracts disease, especially in densely growing plants like Argyranthemum frutescens.
Cut off all of the Argyranthemum frutescens' flowers in mid-spring with a pair of sharp lopping shears after most of the flowers have faded. Cut low enough to trim off any flowers and leggy growth. Deadheading the plant in this manner will stimulate the Argyranthemum to produce an new flush of flowers. Continue to deadhead each time the flowers fade. The plant will continue to produce flowers until fall.
- Pinch off any long, leggy stems or stragglers that grow out of the side.
- Cut off all of the Argyranthemum frutescens' flowers in mid-spring with a pair of sharp lopping shears after most of the flowers have faded.
Prune the Argyranthemum frutescens down to within a few inches of the ground at the end of the season when most of the foliage has died.
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Tips
- Compost or dispose of all plant material. Do not leave it on the garden bed.
Writer Bio
Based in Houston, Texas, Meg Butler is a professional farmer, house flipper and landscaper. When not busy learning about homes and appliances she's sharing that knowledge. Butler began blogging, editing and writing in 2000. Her work has appered in the "Houston Press" and several other publications. She has an A.A. in journalism and a B.A. in history from New York University.
