Daisy Seeds - Creeping Daisy

The Creeping Daisy (also known as Bellis perennis or Ground Daisy) is a charming perennial ground cover known for its vibrant blooms and ability to thrive in a variety of growing conditions. This low-growing, spreading variety of daisy adds beauty and color to gardens, especially in areas with full sun to partial shade. Its cheerful, white or pink flowers and rich green foliage make it an ideal choice for borders, hanging baskets, or as an attractive ground cover.

Key Benefits

• Charming, Colorful Blooms: Produces an abundance of cheerful white, pink, or purple daisy flowers, perfect for adding a splash of color to any garden.
• Low-Growing Ground Cover: Creeps and spreads effectively, covering ground and helping to prevent weed growth.
• Drought Tolerant: Once established, it can tolerate dry periods, making it a resilient choice for gardens with variable watering schedules.
• Attracts Pollinators: Flowers are known to attract bees, butterflies, and other beneficial pollinators, supporting biodiversity in your garden.
• Easy to Grow: Ideal for both beginner and experienced gardeners, Creeping Daisies are adaptable and require minimal care once established.

Variety Features

• Plant Characteristics: Creeping Daisies are compact and spread horizontally, growing 4–6 inches tall, with stems that can extend up to 18 inches in length.
• Flower Color: White, pink, or purple daisy flowers with a yellow center.
• Foliage: Dense, dark green leaves with a slightly hairy texture, creating a soft carpet-like effect.
• Bloom Time: Typically blooms in early spring to early summer, providing long-lasting color.

Planting Instructions

Planting Season

• Best Time to Plant: Early spring or early fall is ideal for planting Creeping Daisy seeds.
• Optimal Growing Conditions: Thrives in temperatures between 60°F–75°F (15°C–24°C), making it perfect for cool to mild climates.

Planting Details

• Seed Depth: Plant seeds 1/8 inch deep in soil.
• Spacing: Space plants 6–8 inches apart to allow them room to spread.
• Soil Requirements: Prefers well-drained soil that is slightly acidic to neutral, with a pH of 6.0–7.0.
• Sunlight: Best grown in full sun, although partial shade can work in warmer climates.

Care Instructions

Watering

• Watering Needs: Water regularly to keep the soil moist but not soggy. Once established, Creeping Daisies are moderately drought-tolerant and only need occasional watering.
• Watering Tip: Ensure good drainage to prevent root rot.

Fertilization

• Fertilizing: Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in the spring to promote healthy growth and abundant blooms.
• Reapply: Fertilize again in early summer if needed, especially for plants grown in poorer soils.

Weeding and Mulching

• Weeding: Regularly weed around the plants to reduce competition for nutrients.
• Mulching: Apply mulch around the base to retain moisture and keep weeds at bay.

Pruning and Deadheading

• Deadheading: Remove spent flowers to encourage new blooms and maintain the plant's tidy appearance.
• Pruning: Trim back any leggy or overgrown stems to keep the plant compact and healthy.

Pest and Disease Control

• Pests: Generally pest-resistant, but aphids or snails may occasionally appear. Use organic pest control methods if needed.
• Diseases: Creeping Daisies are fairly resistant to diseases, but they can be prone to fungal issues if overwatered or in overly humid conditions. Avoid wetting foliage when watering.

Harvesting

• Cut Flowers: If you wish to cut flowers for indoor arrangements, harvest them early in the morning when the flowers are fully open but not yet wilting.
• Seed Saving: After flowering, allow the plants to produce seed heads. Once the seeds are mature, collect them for next season’s planting.

Storage

• Short-Term: Fresh flowers can be stored in a vase for up to a week with proper care.
• Long-Term: For seed storage, keep seeds in a cool, dry place in an airtight container.

Culinary Uses

• Edible Flowers: The flowers of Creeping Daisy are edible and can be used as garnishes or in salads.
• Herbal Remedies: Some use the plant’s flowers in herbal teas, though it’s always best to confirm with an expert before using them in medicine.

Conclusion

The Creeping Daisy is a versatile and hardy ground cover that brings beauty and vibrancy to any garden. Its attractive blooms, ease of care, and ability to thrive in various conditions make it an excellent choice for beginners and seasoned gardeners alike. Whether used as a ground cover, in hanging baskets, or as a border plant, Creeping Daisies will provide long-lasting color and support local pollinators.