Best Practices for Growing and Caring for Daisies
Daisies are an incredibly popular flower for several reasons, and there are a few best practices for growing and caring for them. They're easy to grow and look good in a variety of gardens. There are several varieties of daisies, including the Shasta and Gerbera. Most types of daisies are perennials, which means they'll grow back year after year. They're available in a variety of colors, though the white daisy with a yellow center is considered classic.
Amending Soil
Before planting your daisies, it's a good idea to amend your soil. Daisies prefer rich, well-drained soil, so use a rototiller or hoe to break up soil before planting. Mixing two inches of compost or aged manure into your soil mix will ensure that your daisies have the adequate nutrients they need to grow.
Planting Daisies
You can purchase fully grown daisies at your local nursery or home improvement store. It's easier to grow daisies from existing plants than seed, so this is the preferred option. They should be planted in the spring and placed one to two feet apart. You want to give your daisies plenty of room to thrive, since they can grow rapidly. Leave the very top portion of their roots exposed to prevent rotting and disease, and be sure to water deeply after planting.
Pruning and Care
After they have died in the fall, daisies should be cut back to one or two inches. This will promote healthy growth in the spring. In addition, you should apply a thick layer of mulch over the ground if you live in a colder region, as this will help protect your daisies from harsh winter frosts. An application of fertilizer in the spring will keep them blooming throughout summer, when they should be watered during dry periods.
