FLOWER-BELLIS M0NSTROSA MIX-ENGLISH DAISY

How to Grow Bellis Monstrosa

1. Choose a location in full sun to partial shade and well-draining soil that is neutral to slightly acidic pH (6.0 to 7.0)
2. Sow seeds just below the soil surface, about 0.6 cm (0.25 inches) deep.
3. Space plants about 15-20 cm (6-8 inches) apart to allow for growth.
4. Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.  Water when the top 2.5 cm (1 inch) of soil feels dry.
5. Fertilise every 2-3 weeks with a balanced fertiliser during the growing season.
6. Keep the soil temperature between 15-21°C (59-70°F) for optimal germination.

OR

1.  Start seeds indoors, 8-10 weeks before the last frost date in your area. Sow the seeds in seed trays or pots filled with seed compost and cover with a plastic wrap or propagator lid to maintain humidity.
2. Transplant seedlings when they have grown to about 5-7 cm tall and have at least two sets of true leaves, they can be transplanted into larger pots or into the garden.
3. Keep an eye out for pests such as aphids, whiteflies and spider mites, and diseases such as powdery mildew and blight. Use organic pest control methods if possible.
4. Pinch off dead flowers to encourage new blooms and maintain a neat appearance

Some additional growing tips for

1. Cold Stratification

• • • Why: English daisies, especially varieties like Monstrosa, may benefit from cold stratification. This process mimics winter conditions to break seed dormancy, encouraging better germination.
    • How: Place the seeds in moist sand or soil in a sealed bag and refrigerate them for 4-6 weeks before planting.

2. Stressing for More Blooms

• • • Why: Some gardeners have found that light stress, such as minimal water deprivation or slightly overcrowding the plants, can lead to increased flowering.
    • How: Avoid overwatering and allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings. This can encourage the plants to produce more flowers as a survival mechanism.

3. Companion Planting with Clover

• • • Why: Growing English daisies alongside clover can provide nitrogen to the soil, benefiting the daisies without the need for excessive fertilizer.
    • How: Plant clover seeds or mix them into your lawn or flower bed to naturally enrich the soil around your daisies.

4. Mulching with Pine Needles

• • • Why: Pine needles can create a slightly acidic environment, which helps English daisies thrive.
    • How: Apply a thin layer of pine needle mulch around the plants to help retain moisture and maintain the ideal pH for growth.
    • Beaware: Don’t over mulch with pine needles as they contain a chemical that stops any other seed from growing under that pine tree. You might inadverently stop you flowers from growing.

5. Moon Gardening

• • • Why: Some gardeners believe that planting and caring for certain plants according to lunar cycles can enhance growth. While this method is unconventional, some have reported improved results.
    • How: Plan your planting, watering, and fertilising around the phases of the moon, particularly during the waxing moon, which is believed to encourage growth.

6. Using Mycorrhizal Fungi

• • • Why: Mycorrhizal fungi form symbiotic relationships with plant roots, increasing nutrient absorption, particularly phosphorus, which is essential for blooming.
    • How: You can add mycorrhizal fungi to the soil when planting your daisies. These can be purchased in powdered or granular forms and mixed into the planting area.

7. Micronutrient Sprays

• • • Why: English daisies can benefit from foliar sprays that contain micronutrients like magnesium and iron. These elements enhance photosynthesis and overall plant health.
    • How: Use a micronutrient spray designed for flowers, misting the leaves lightly every few weeks during the growing season.

8. Deadheading with Tweezers

• • • Why: For varieties like Monstrosa, which have distinctive flower shapes, using fine tools like tweezers for deadheading can prevent damage to the surrounding growth.
    • How: Carefully remove spent flowers with tweezers to promote new blooms and maintain the plant’s shape.

9. Shade During Peak Heat

• • • Why: Though daisies can tolerate full sun, intense heat can stress the plants. Providing temporary shade during peak afternoon hours in hot climates can reduce stress and promote continuous flowering.
    • How: Use shade cloths or place your plants near taller companions that provide dappled shade during the hottest parts of the day.

Heritage of Bellis Monstrosa

Often referred to as the English daisy or mutant daisy, traces its roots back to the European continent, particularly in the meadows of Western Europe, where the standard Bellis perennis species thrived.  The name “monstrosa” hints at its unique appearance, featuring larger, almost mutant-like blooms compared to the traditional daisy, which made it a favoured choice for early plant breeders. English daisies were cherished in Victorian-era gardens, symbolising innocence and simplicity, and have been cultivated in cottage gardens and ornamental flower beds ever since. The mutated or unusual form of Monstrosa gave it a particular appeal to those interested in rare and distinctive garden plants. Over time, the plant has been naturalised in many regions around the world, evolving from a wildflower into a beloved ornamental species in diverse garden settings.

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