Divide Your Daisies

Rejuvenate these perennials, and share them with friends.

Several words describe daisy growing habits: vigorous, assertive, and yes, moderately invasive. But, like an unruly puppy, these perennials can be molded into something tame and manageable with a little effort. We're talking about selections such as midsummer's 'Becky' Shasta daisy (Chrysanthemum x maximum 'Becky') and later-blooming 'Ryan's Pink' daisy (C. x morifolium 'Ryan's Pink'). Early-blooming ox-eye daisy (C. leucanthemum) requires the same treatment after its spring flower flush.

Dig Right In

These daisies form dense foliage mats when left alone for several years. Work from the outer edge of the clump, lifting large sections with a sharp spade. Gently separate each small plant cluster with your hands, carefully untangling roots as you go.

After you dig and divide the plants, prepare the bed for replanting. Add purchased soil conditioner or organic compost to the garden, working it into the ground. Replant the daisies, using no more than half of them in the same bed. Space them 8 to 10 inches apart, and fertilize with a timed-release, granular product such as 14-14-14. Water thoroughly, keeping plants moist for several weeks.

Spread the Wealth

Many plants have been passed around for generations, ensuring access to otherwise-lost heirloom favorites. Now that you have a bounty of daisies on your hands, consider giving some to your neighbors and gardening buddies. There's no better gift than a treasure from your flowerbed.

ELLEN RUOFF RILEY

OTHER PASS-ALONGS

* Share annual seeds from cosmos, cleomes, zinnias, morning glories, and moonflowers.

* In the fall, share iris, daylilies, daisies (if you didn't divide them in the spring), ginger lilies, and black-eyed Susans.

Copyright Southern Progress Corporation Feb 2005
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