Gardening
Growing Cheerful Daisies in Flower Pots: A Comprehensive Guide for
St. Louis Gardeners
Daisies, with their bright and cheerful blooms, bring a touch of classic beauty to any setting. Growing these delightful flowers in flower pots offers a versatile and accessible way to enjoy their charm, especially for those with limited garden space. This guide provides comprehensive instructions for successfully cultivating daisies in containers, tailored specifically for the climate of St. Louis, Missouri. By understanding the key aspects of pot selection, soil preparation, planting, watering, sunlight, fertilization, and deadheading, gardeners in St. Louis can look forward to vibrant displays of daisies throughout the growing season.
Choosing the Perfect Pot
Selecting the appropriate pot is a foundational step in growing healthy daisies. The size and material of the container play significant roles in root development and overall plant health. For English Daisies (Bellis perennis), which are more compact, pots with a depth and diameter of at least 6-8 inches are recommended. Shasta Daisies (Leucanthemum × superbum), known for their larger flowers, require more space, thriving in pots with a depth of 8-12 inches, and ideally 12 inches. For individual Shasta plants, a diameter of 10-12 inches is suitable, while larger displays or multiple plants will benefit from pots 12-18 inches or larger. African Daisies (Osteospermum and Dimorphotheca) and Gerbera Daisies (Gerbera jamesonii) also prefer pots with a depth of 8-12 inches and a diameter of 8-10 inches for individual plants. Considering the specific type of daisy ensures adequate room for the root system to flourish.
The material of the pot also influences the growing environment. Terracotta pots, with their porous nature, allow for excellent aeration and drainage, which can help prevent overwatering. However, they tend to dry out more quickly, necessitating more frequent monitoring of soil moisture, especially in hot weather. For Shasta daisies, terracotta should be avoided as it can leach out moisture too rapidly. Ceramic pots, available in numerous decorative styles, retain moisture reasonably well. Glazed ceramic options will retain more moisture compared to unglazed ones. Plastic pots are a lightweight and inexpensive choice that retains moisture effectively. They are particularly well-suited for moisture-loving daisies or hotter climates, provided they are of good quality and have drainage holes. Resin pots offer a balance between drainage and moisture retention, often mimicking the look of terracotta or ceramic while being more durable and lighter than ceramic. Metal pots can add a modern or rustic aesthetic, but it's crucial to ensure they have drainage and consider lining them to prevent rust and protect roots from excessive heat. Ultimately, the choice of pot material can be tailored to individual preferences and the specific needs of the daisy variety and local climate.
Regardless of size or material, proper drainage is absolutely essential for all types of daisies grown in pots to prevent the detrimental issue of root rot. Every chosen pot must have drainage holes at the bottom. Using pots without drainage can lead to waterlogged soil, effectively suffocating the roots. While it was once a common practice to add a layer of gravel or pot shards to the base of the pot to improve drainage, current understanding suggests this is generally unnecessary when using a well-draining potting mix. In fact, some evidence indicates that this layer can actually impede drainage by creating a perched water table where water accumulates in the denser soil above the coarser material. Elevating pots slightly using pot feet or bricks can further enhance drainage and improve air circulation around the base. For those who prefer decorative pots without drainage holes, a practical solution is to use the "double potting" method, where the daisy is planted in a plastic nursery pot with drainage holes and then placed inside the decorative pot. Self-watering pots also offer a convenient option for managing moisture levels.
Preparing the Ideal Soil
The foundation for thriving daisies in pots lies in the quality and composition of the soil. Daisies require well-draining soil to prevent water from lingering around their roots. The best approach is to use a high-quality, all-purpose potting mix specifically formulated for containers or flowers. It is crucial to avoid using heavy garden soil in pots, as it tends to retain too much moisture and can become compacted, leading to waterlogged conditions. For those growing Shasta daisies, a homemade mix consisting of equal parts peat moss, compost, and perlite can also provide the necessary drainage and aeration. Amending any potting mix with compost is beneficial as it improves both fertility and drainage. For Gerbera daisies, incorporating perlite, vermiculite, or coco coir into the potting mix can further enhance drainage and aeration. The emphasis on well-draining soil stems from the fact that daisies are particularly susceptible to root rot in overly moist conditions.
Daisies thrive in soil that is slightly acidic to neutral. For most daisy varieties, an ideal pH range is around 6.0-7.0, although a broader range of 6.0-8.0 is also mentioned. Common daisies (Bellis perennis) prefer a slightly more alkaline pH, in the range of 6.5 to 7.5. While a pH above 5.5 is generally acceptable, common daisies show a preference for a pH of 7.0 to 8.0. Fortunately, most commercially available, high-quality potting mixes are formulated to fall within a suitable pH range for a wide variety of plants, including daisies. This often negates the need for home gardeners to conduct specific pH tests, simplifying the soil preparation process.
Timing Your Planting in St. Louis
For gardeners in St. Louis, Missouri, the timing of planting daisy seeds or seedlings is crucial for successful growth and abundant blooms. Generally, the best time to plant daisy seeds is in early spring, after the danger of frost has passed and when the soil temperature reaches at least 60°F. Starting seeds indoors 4-6 weeks before the last expected frost can provide an advantage, leading to earlier flowering. Shasta and Oxeye daisy seeds offer flexibility, as they can be sown from early winter through late spring, and even in the fall. In St. Louis, which falls within USDA hardiness zones 6a and 7a, the average last frost date typically occurs around mid-April. To be on the safer side, some gardeners in the region prefer to wait until the first week of May before planting. For those opting to start seeds indoors in St. Louis, sowing them around late February to early March would align with the 4-6 week lead time before the mid-April to early May outdoor planting window. Some resources suggest an even earlier start for perennial flowers like Shasta daisies in Zone 6, potentially as early as the end of January or early February. Direct sowing of daisy seeds outdoors in St. Louis should ideally take place after the last spring frost, typically in late April or early May.
While starting from seed is a rewarding experience, purchasing seedlings or transplants from a nursery can offer a quicker route to enjoying blooming daisies. For Shasta daisies, planting nursery-grown plants is recommended in the spring after the last frost or in early fall. Specifically for Zone 6a, it is advised to plant daisy seedlings or transplants outdoors around April 15th (after the last frost) or during the period from August 15th to September 1st. Choosing seedlings can be particularly beneficial for beginner gardeners as it bypasses the potentially more challenging initial stages of seed germination and early seedling care.
Step-by-Step Planting Guide
Whether starting from seeds or seedlings, the planting process is
straightforward.
A. Planting Seeds:
Begin by filling the chosen pot with the prepared potting mix, ensuring to leave about an inch of space from the rim. Thoroughly moisten the soil with water. Next, sow the daisy seeds at the appropriate depth, which is generally around 1/8 inch beneath the soil surface. Gently press the seeds into the soil. It's worth noting that some sources indicate daisy seeds require light for germination, suggesting they should not be covered with soil. Therefore, consulting the specific instructions on the seed packet is advisable to determine the optimal planting depth. If planting multiple seeds in a larger container, ensure adequate spacing. For Shasta daisies, an initial spacing of about 6 inches apart is often recommended, with the possibility of thinning weaker seedlings later if needed. For mass plantings, a spacing of 6-8 inches between plants is generally suitable. After sowing, maintain consistent moisture in the soil, ensuring it remains damp but not waterlogged, until the seeds germinate. Place the pot in a warm location that receives bright light and has good air circulation. Germination typically occurs within 7-21 days , although some varieties may take 10-20 days. Once the seedlings have developed their second set of true leaves, you can begin watering with a diluted plant fertilizer, using a half-strength solution. If multiple seedlings have sprouted too closely together, thin them out to provide sufficient space for healthy growth. Once the seedlings reach a height of 2-3 inches, they can be transplanted into a larger pot if needed.
B. Planting Seedlings/Transplants:
Begin by selecting a pot of the appropriate size that has good drainage. Fill the pot with the prepared potting mix. Carefully remove the daisy seedling from its nursery container, taking care to avoid damaging the delicate roots. If the roots appear tightly packed or circling the pot (potbound), gently tease them apart to encourage outward growth. Dig a hole in the potting mix that is large enough to comfortably accommodate the seedling's root ball. Place the seedling in the hole, ensuring that the top of the root ball is level with the surface of the soil in the pot. For potted plants, it's important to plant them with the crown (the part of the plant where the stem meets the roots) slightly above the soil line. Fill the remaining space in the hole with potting mix, gently firming the soil around the base of the plant to eliminate any air pockets. Avoid compacting the soil too tightly. Water the newly planted seedling thoroughly until water begins to drain from the bottom of the pot. If planting multiple seedlings in a larger pot, space them according to the expected mature size of the specific daisy variety. For instance, Shasta daisies may require a spacing of 1-2 feet in a garden setting, but this can be adjusted slightly closer in a pot depending on the desired density. For mass plantings in window boxes, a spacing of about 6-8 inches between plants is generally suitable. Always consider the mature height and spread of the daisy variety when determining the appropriate spacing. If you have started your seedlings indoors, it is crucial to "harden them off" before transplanting them outdoors. This process involves gradually acclimating the seedlings to outdoor conditions, such as temperature, sunlight, and wind, over a period of about a week.
Watering for Success
Consistent and appropriate watering is vital for the health and blooming of daisies in pots. The frequency of watering will depend on various factors, including the weather, the type of pot material, the size of the plant, and the stage of growth. As a general guideline, water regularly whenever the top inch of the soil feels dry to the touch. Daisies prefer consistently moist soil, particularly during their establishment period and when they are actively blooming. A common practice is to water once or twice a week, but this should be adjusted based on the specific conditions. The most reliable way to determine if your daisy needs water is to check the soil moisture directly. Insert your finger about an inch into the soil; if it feels dry at that depth, it's time to water. Plants grown in containers tend to dry out more quickly than those planted in the ground due to the limited volume of soil, so more frequent checks are necessary, possibly even daily, especially during warm weather. Potted daisies generally require more frequent watering compared to those in garden beds. It's beneficial to allow the very top surface of the soil to dry out slightly between watering sessions , but avoid letting the soil dry out completely, especially when the plant is actively growing and producing flowers. Be mindful that overwatering can be detrimental, leading to wilting and yellowing leaves.
When you do water your daisies, ensure you do so thoroughly, applying water until it begins to drain from the drainage holes at the bottom of the pot. This practice ensures that the entire root zone is adequately moistened. It is crucial to avoid overwatering and allowing the pot to sit in standing water, as this can lead to soggy soil and the development of root rot. Water the plants at the base to prevent wetting the foliage and petals, which can encourage mold growth and sun damage. Watering at the soil level is always recommended. Watering deeply encourages the roots to grow stronger and deeper into the pot, making the plant more resilient.
Watering needs will fluctuate depending on the weather conditions. During hot, sunny, or windy periods, you may need to water your potted daisies more frequently. Checking the soil moisture daily under such conditions is advisable. Conversely, during rainy weather, it's essential to check the soil moisture to avoid overwatering, particularly for pots situated under eaves or porches that might not receive the full amount of rainfall. In the winter months, when daisy growth typically slows down or they enter a dormant phase, reduce the frequency of watering significantly. Only water if the soil appears excessively dry or even cracking. Adapting your watering schedule to the prevailing weather conditions is key to maintaining the optimal moisture level for your potted daisies.
Sunshine is Key
Daisies are known for their love of sunshine and thrive when exposed to ample light. For the best and most abundant blooms, aim to provide your potted daisies with at least 6 hours of direct sunlight each day. While full sun is their preference, some daisy varieties can tolerate partial shade, although this may result in reduced flowering. Shasta daisies, for example, are known to be quite adaptable and can perform well in partial shade. English daisies also prefer full to partial sun. In contrast, Gerbera daisies thrive in lots of direct sunlight but are sensitive to high temperatures exceeding 70°F , and African daisies require full sun to flourish. Given the hot summers in St. Louis, providing some afternoon shade might be beneficial for Gerbera daisies in particular. Insufficient sunlight can lead to undesirable outcomes such as leggy growth, where the stems become elongated and weak as the plant stretches to find more light, and a significant reduction in the number of blooms produced. Therefore, positioning your potted daisies in a location that receives ample sunlight is crucial for their overall health and flowering performance.
Fertilizing Your Potted Daisies
Daisies in pots generally benefit from regular fertilization, especially because the nutrients in the potting mix can leach out over time due to frequent watering. While some daisy types are relatively low-maintenance and can grow without supplemental feeding, providing fertilizer can encourage more vigorous growth and abundant blooms. A balanced liquid fertilizer (such as a 10-10-10 or 20-20-20 ratio) diluted to half strength and applied every 2-4 weeks during the blooming season is often recommended. Alternatively, a slow-release fertilizer can be incorporated into the potting mix at the time of planting, providing a steady supply of nutrients over a longer period. Some gardeners prefer to use organic fertilizers like compost or well-rotted manure as a top dressing in the spring. For encouraging more blooms, a fertilizer slightly higher in phosphorus (the middle number in the N-P-K ratio) can be particularly beneficial, especially just before the daisies start to flower. It is important to avoid over-fertilizing, especially with high-nitrogen fertilizers, as this can promote excessive leafy growth at the expense of flowers. Following the instructions on the fertilizer packaging regarding application rates and frequency is crucial to prevent damage to your plants.
The Importance of Deadheading
Deadheading, the removal of faded or dead flowers, is a crucial practice for encouraging continuous blooming and maintaining the overall appearance of your daisy plants. By removing spent blooms, you prevent the plant from putting energy into seed production, redirecting it instead towards producing more flowers. Deadheading also helps to keep the plant looking tidy and can even prevent the unwanted spread of daisies through self-seeding. The best time to deadhead daisies is as soon as the flowers begin to fade, wilt, or turn brown. Using a clean pair of pruning shears or a sharp knife, cut the spent flower stem back to the first set of healthy leaves or a new bud forming lower down on the stem. For single-stemmed varieties like Gerbera daisies, cut the entire stem back to the base of the plant. Regular deadheading, ideally once a week during the blooming season, will significantly encourage more blooms and extend the flowering period.
Conclusion
Growing daisies in flower pots is a rewarding endeavor that can bring continuous color and cheer to your home and garden in St. Louis. By selecting the right pot size and material, providing well-draining soil, planting at the optimal time, watering appropriately, ensuring ample sunlight, fertilizing as needed, and diligently deadheading spent blooms, you can cultivate vibrant and healthy daisies throughout the growing season. Remember to observe your plants closely and adjust your care practices based on their specific needs and the prevailing weather conditions. With a little attention and care, your potted daisies will thrive and provide you with a delightful display of their classic beauty.
Daisy Type
Sunlight Requirement
Snippet IDs
Shasta Daisy
Full sun (at least 6 hours), tolerates partial shade
English Daisy
Full to partial sun
Gerbera Daisy
Lots of direct sun, dislikes high heat
African Daisy
Full sun