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The Complete Guide to Growing and Caring for Shasta Daisies
As a garden blogger, I have seen my fair share of flowers.
But there is one flower that always catches my eye and it’s the shasta daisy.
These beautiful flowers are easy to grow and care for, making them the perfect addition to any garden.
In this article, I’ll give you a complete guide on how to grow and care for shasta daisies.
What are Shasta Daisies?
Shasta daisies (Leucanthemum x superbum) are a hybrid of several different types of daisies native to Europe.
They were first developed in the late 1800s by American horticulturist Luther Burbank.
The shasta daisy is known for its large white petals surrounding a yellow center.
Where do Shasta Daisies Grow Best?
Shasta daisies are hardy perennials that can tolerate cold temperatures as low as -40°F (-40°C).
They prefer well-draining soil with lots of organic matter and full sun exposure.
While they can tolerate some shade, they will produce fewer blooms in these conditions.
When Should You Plant Shasta Daisies?
- You can plant shasta daisy seeds directly in your garden in early spring or fall when the soil temperature is around 60°F (15°C).
- If you prefer planting established plants, then wait until after the last frost date has passed in your area before planting.
How Do You Plant Shastas?
- Dig a hole that’s twice as wide as the root ball but no deeper than its height.
- Place the plant in the hole and backfill with soil.
- Water well to encourage root growth.
How Do You Care for Shasta Daisies?
Shasta daisies are relatively easy to care for, but there are a few things you should keep in mind:
Fertilizing Shasta Daisies
You can fertilize shasta daisies once per year in early spring.
Use a balanced fertilizer like 10-10-10 or 16-16-16 at a rate of one pound per 100 square feet (45 kg per 100 sq m).
Alternatively, you can use compost or well-aged manure as a natural fertilizer.
Watering Shasta Daisies
In general, shasta daisies don’t need much water once established.
They prefer slightly moist soil but will tolerate drought conditions.
Water deeply once per week during hot and dry periods and avoid watering the foliage, which can lead to fungal diseases.
Pest and Disease Control for Shastas
The most common pests that affect shastas are aphids, spider mites, and thrips.
You can control these pests by using insecticidal soap or neem oil spray.
To prevent diseases like powdery mildew and leaf spot, make sure your plants have good air circulation around them by spacing them out properly when planting them.
Avoid overhead watering that splashes water on the leaves as this spreads disease spores.
When Do Shastas Bloom?
The flowering time of shastas varies depending on your location.
In general, they bloom from late spring to early summer with some varieties blooming again in the fall.
Deadheading spent blooms encourages more growth and extends the blooming period.
Conclusion
Shasta daisies are a beautiful and easy-to-care-for flower that will brighten up any garden.
Follow the steps in this guide to grow your own shastas and enjoy their blooms for years to come!
