The Daisy (Bellis Perennis) features old-fashioned blossoms with white flowers and yellow button centers. It stands tall, between two and three feet, and one to two feet wide. This plant is known as the classic perennial and is found everywhere on the planet except Antarctica. Numerous varieties of the Bellis Perennis exist.
Requirements for the Daisy
Although the Bellis Perennis is a hardy flower, it prefers abundant sunshine, ample water, and rich, draining soil. Adding a little animal manure or organic compost into the existing soil will encourage the plant to develop plenty of blooms. When planting Bellis perennis, ensure enough space between the plants for proper air circulation, about one to two feet. When late autumn arrives, the plants should be cut down to the ground within three inches. The plants' roots send up new growth in spring.
Things to know about the Daisy
They are a flower that is also simple to grow by seed. If sowing directly into the garden, lightly cover with about 1/8 inch of soil. Seeds will germinate in 10-20 days but should bloom in the second year of planting. If purchasing the plant in a container, plant it in the spring. If grown in cold weather regions, experts advise providing a thick layer of mulch for winter protection. Luckily, insects aren't a problem with this low-maintenance plant. The only pests that can mar the Daisy are slugs and snails. To counter that, dust plants with diatomaceous earth from an applicator after watering; this is an effective and non-toxic method for controlling all insect pests that crawl on plants.
Daisy Description
The Daisy is a classic flowering perineal that grows the best in hardiness zones 4 to 9. It is best planted in the early to mid-spring to allow the roots time to establish themselves. They have narrow, serrated leaves and flower blooms in various colors, including whites, pinks, purples, and yellows. Bellis Perennis will begin blooming in the summer, and its cold tolerance allows it to continue into fall. As the flowers die off, trim them at the bloom's base to extend the growing season.
These plants can grow from 10 inches to several feet tall and must be planted in an area protected from high winds, lest they get blown over. Bellis Perennis prefers soil with a sandy consistency that drains well. Planting in soil that retains water will cause fungal diseases and weaken the plant. They are somewhat drought tolerant once established but must be watered regularly in their first few seasons.
The plants require full sun for optimum growth, and while it will tolerate occasional partial shade, this could stunt the plant's growth. The flower head will begin withering in the fall, signaling an end to its blooming season. At this time, the plant can be pruned down to about an inch or two above the soil line. Bellis Perennis reproduce by their root system, and after about 2 to 3 years, they will need to be divided out to prevent overcrowding. It is best to divide the plant in early spring before the flowers bloom or in late fall when the blooming season is over.
Hardy Planting Zone - Grows best in zones 4 to 9
Bloom Season (if any) - Summer and fall
Bloom Color - Whites, pinks, purples, and yellows
Height at Maturity - From 10 inches to several feet tall
Soil Type Preferred - Well-drained, sandy soil
Sun or Shade - Full sun is required
