🌿 Daisy

Grow in moist but well-drained, moderately fertile soil (preferably loam). Incorporate organic matter/compost to improve structure and moisture retention, but avoid heavy, waterlogged soils; good drainage is important. Tolerates a wide range of soils, including the poorest, and generally prefers neutral to slightly acidic conditions.

Sow daisy (Bellis perennis) seeds in spring, after the risk of frost, or in late summer for flowering the following spring. - Location/soil: Full sun to partial shade; moist but well-drained soil. Prepare a fine, weed-free seedbed or use a seed tray with a fine starter mix. - Sowing depth: Sow on the surface; seeds need light to germinate. Press seeds lightly on the surface and leave uncovered (or cover only with a very light layer of fine vermiculite). - Humidity/temperature: Keep soil evenly moist (not soggy). Germination is best in cool conditions (around 10-20°C / 50-68°F). - After germination: Provide bright light and good air circulation. When seedlings are large enough to handle, transplant into plugs/pots or thin out on site. - Planting/spacing: Harden off seedlings before transplanting. Space plants approx. 15-20 cm (6-8 in) apart. - Notes: Established plants can also be increased by division in spring or early autumn.

Daisies generally need only light feeding. Incorporate compost or well-decomposed manure at planting and apply a fine compost mulch in spring. If growth is weak, use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer (e.g. 5-5-5 to 10-10-10) once in early spring; avoid high-nitrogen fertilizers, which promote soft, leafy growth and fewer flowers. In containers, give a little dilute, balanced liquid fertilizer every 2-4 weeks during active growth and flowering, then stop giving fertilizer in late summer or early autumn to allow plants to harden off.

This plant, which most often refers to the common daisy (Bellis perennis), has traditionally been used in Europe as a medicinal herb. Preparations of the aerial parts have been used as an astringent and mild anti-inflammatory for minor wounds, bruises and skin irritations, and as an expectorant for coughs/catarrh. It is also traditionally used as a mild diuretic. Evidence of its clinical efficacy is limited; people allergic to Asteraceae (daisy family) may be prone to contact reactions.