Growing daisies from seeds is a simple and rewarding process. Here's a general guide on how to grow daisy seeds:
Materials Needed:
Daisy seeds
Seed trays or small pots
Seed starting mix or well-draining potting soil
Watering can or spray bottle
Plastic wrap or a humidity dome
Grow lights or a sunny windowsill
Fertilizer (optional)
Garden soil (if transplanting outdoors)
Procedure:
Selecting Daisy Seeds:
Starting Indoors (Optional):
While daisies can be directly sown outdoors, starting seeds indoors allows for better control of the germination environment. Begin indoors 6-8 weeks before the last expected frost.
Preparing Seed Trays or Pots:
Fill seed trays or small pots with a seed starting mix or a well-draining potting soil. Moisten the soil thoroughly.
Sowing Seeds:
Scatter the daisy seeds over the soil surface, pressing them gently into the soil. Daisies require light for germination, so do not cover them with soil.
Misting or Watering:
Mist the surface with water using a spray bottle or water gently with a watering can. Ensure the soil remains consistently moist during the germination period.
Covering Seeds:
To create a humid environment for germination, cover the trays or pots with plastic wrap or place them in a plastic dome. This helps retain moisture.
Germination:
Daisy seeds typically germinate in 10-20 days. Once the seedlings emerge, remove the plastic cover and place the trays or pots in a location with bright, indirect light.
Providing Light:
If growing indoors, place the seedlings under grow lights or on a sunny windowsill where they can receive at least 6 hours of sunlight daily.
Transplanting (Optional):
Once the seedlings have grown large enough and the risk of frost has passed, you can transplant them outdoors. Choose a location with well-draining soil.
Outdoor Planting:
If sowing directly outdoors, wait until after the last frost date. Prepare the soil by removing weeds and adding organic matter for improved fertility.
Spacing:
Space the daisy plants according to the specific variety's recommendations, typically between 12 to 24 inches apart.
Watering:
Water the daisies regularly, keeping the soil consistently moist. Once established, daisies are relatively drought-tolerant.
Fertilization (Optional):
If the soil is not particularly fertile, you can apply a balanced fertilizer during the growing season, following package instructions.
Deadheading (Optional):
Deadhead spent flowers to encourage continuous blooming and to maintain a neat appearance.
Growing daisies from seeds is a straightforward process, and with proper care, you can enjoy the cheerful blooms of these versatile flowers in your garden.