How to Grow and Care for Daisies
Daisies are cheerful, easy-to-grow flowers perfect for borders, meadows and containers. Varieties such as Shasta daisies, oxeye and African daisies differ in hardiness and habit, but all share a preference for sunny sites and well-drained soil. This guide explains how to choose varieties, prepare soil, plant, care seasonally, and handle pests and diseases with safe, effective treatments.
Selecting Varieties and Site
Select Shasta daisies for perennial borders, oxeye for naturalizing and African daisies for seasonal color. Choose a site with full sun—at least six hours daily—to maximize blooms. Good air circulation reduces mildew risk. Avoid heavy shade which yields leggy plants and fewer flowers.
Soil Preparation
Daisies prefer moderately fertile, well-draining soil. Improve poor soils with compost and ensure surface drainage in heavy clay by adding grit or using raised beds. Aim for neutral to slightly acidic pH. Good structure and organic matter ensure steady growth and prolonged flowering.
Planting and Spacing
Plant nursery transplants in spring after last frost. Space plants 12–18 inches apart to allow airflow and reduce disease. If sowing from seed, follow packet timings—many prefer spring sowing for establishment. Planting in groups enhances visual impact and pollinator attraction.
Watering and Mulch
Water regularly during establishment, then reduce frequency—daisies are moderately drought tolerant. Deep watering encourages strong roots. Use a thin layer of mulch to conserve moisture and suppress weeds while avoiding excessive cover at crowns which can cause rot.
Fertilizing
Feed daisies with a balanced slow-release fertilizer in spring. Avoid heavy nitrogen as it favors foliage over flowers. Annually top-dress with compost to maintain soil fertility and structure. Light feeding during the season supports continuous blooms.
Maintenance: Deadheading and Division
Regular deadheading of spent flowers promotes more blooms and tidier plants. Divide clumps every 2–3 years in spring or fall to rejuvenate plants and prevent overcrowding, which reduces airflow and increases disease risk.
Pests, Diseases and Treatments
Common pests include slugs, snails and occasional aphids—manage with traps, barriers or insecticidal soap. Powdery mildew can affect daisies in humid weather—improve air circulation, avoid overhead watering, and apply fungicide if necessary. Root rot from poor drainage requires correcting soil conditions or using raised beds. Overall, cultural controls prevent most problems.
Conclusion
Daisies are forgiving, long-blooming plants that reward simple care. With full sun, good soil, moderate feeding and routine deadheading, you’ll enjoy abundant, cheerful flowers and a pollinator-friendly garden feature.