A Comprehensive Guide to Growing and Caring for English Daisies
Bellis perennis
English daisies, also known as Bellis perennis, are the classic flower for creating daisy chains. These colorful blooms are commonly found in lawns, especially in cool, moist climates. Thanks to plant breeders, there are now various vibrant cultivars of English daisies available to grow in your garden.
If you are looking to dive into growing these bright flowers for daisy chains, cut flowers, or even as an edible addition to salads and confections, you are in the right place. Let’s explore how to cultivate and care for English daisies to ensure a successful garden.
What You’ll Learn
- Cultivation and History – Learn about the origins and natural habitat of English daisies.
- Propagation – Discover methods for propagating English daisies from seed or division.
- How to Grow – Understand the best practices for growing healthy English daisies.
- Growing Tips – Tips and tricks for optimal daisy growth and bloom.
- Pruning and Maintenance – Strategies for keeping your daisies healthy and blooming.
- Cultivars to Select – Explore different cultivars of English daisies to find the right fit for your garden.
- Managing Pests and Disease – Identify potential issues and learn how to address them.
- Best Uses – Creative ways to incorporate English daisies into your landscape.
- Quick Reference Growing Guide – A handy reference for planting and caring for English daisies.
Cultivation and History
Hardy in Zones 3-9, Bellis perennis is native to northern Africa, western Asia, and Europe. While it is commonly known as English daisy, other names like common or lawn daisy better reflect its appearance and habitat. This short plant features flower stems that can reach six inches in height, with foliage spanning four inches in width.
The name “Bellis perennis” translates to “pretty everlasting,” highlighting the flower’s beauty and potential to persist year after year. Throughout history, English daisies have been used for various medicinal purposes, ranging from treating wounds to acting as an insect repellent.
Despite its innocent appearance, English daisies have naturalized in North America, leading to their classification as an invasive weed in certain regions. However, they also serve as valuable plants for pollinators, attracting butterflies, bees, flies, and beetles.
Propagation
English daisies can be propagated through seeds or division.
From Seed
Ripening from late May to October, English daisy seeds can be collected from existing plants or purchased for consistent bloom quality. Direct sow the seeds in midsummer to early autumn for Zones 3-7, or in early spring for Zones 8-9.
Alternatively, start the seeds indoors eight to ten weeks before the last frost date. After germinating in around 10-25 days, the plants can be transplanted into the garden.
By Division
Mature English daisy clumps can be divided in spring or summer after flowering. Dig up the shallow roots for division and replant immediately for robust growth.
Transplanting English daisies requires amending the soil with compost, spacing the plants appropriately, and watering adequately.
How to Grow
English daisies thrive in cool, moist climates, preferring organically rich, well-draining soil. Plant them in partial shade for hot summers and full sun for cooler climates. Regular watering is essential, as these plants are intolerant of drought.
Consider using an all-purpose fertilizer in early spring if the soil lacks nutrients, especially for container-grown daisies. Remember that container plants require more frequent watering than those planted in the ground.
Growing Tips
- Plant in partial shade for hot summers.
- Keep the soil consistently moist.
- Provide well-draining, rich soil for optimal growth.
Pruning and Maintenance
Removing spent flowers helps prevent self-seeding and encourages additional bloom cycles. Consider discarding the entire plant after the blooming season to prevent unwanted reseeding.
Cultivars to Select
English daisies are available in various colors, with classic single blooms transforming into full-petaled double cultivars. Some popular cultivars include:
- Bellissima Red
- Galaxy Rose
- Pomponette White
- Tasso Pink
- Tasso Strawberries and Cream
Explore these cultivars to add vibrant colors and unique shapes to your garden.
Managing Pests and Disease
While English daisies are generally resistant to pests and diseases, occasional issues may arise. Watch out for aphids and European pepper moth, and utilize organic control methods if necessary.
Insects
- Aphids – Combat these plant-sucking insects with horticultural oil.
- European Pepper Moth – Control larvae damage by maintaining plant hygiene and utilizing beneficial nematodes.
Disease
- Cottony Soft Rot – Prevent rot by spacing plants properly and promptly removing infected plants.
Best Uses
English daisies are versatile plants suitable for bulb beds, containers, cut flowers, and mass plantings. Their colorful blooms complement spring gardens and attract pollinators. Consider using them in various settings to enhance your landscape.
In addition to their ornamental value, English daisies are edible, with both leaves and flowers suitable for salads and confections. Ensure they are organically grown if using them for culinary purposes.
Embrace the charm and beauty of English daisies in your garden to enjoy their lovely blooms and enhance your landscape.
Everlasting, vibrant, and versatile, English daisies add a touch of spring to any garden space. Explore the possibilities and experience the joy of growing these delightful flowers in your outdoor oasis. Share your English daisy adventures in the comments below and let your garden bloom with beauty!
