Shasta daisies, bred by American horticulturist Luther Burbank back in 1890, were named after Mount Shasta in Northern California because their snowy white petals reminded Burbank of the color of the snow.
Formerly classified as belonging to the genus Chrysanthemum, they now have their own genus called Leucanthemum.
These hardy, herbaceous perennials are grown for their bright white-petaled flowers with yellow centers. The word “daisy” originally came from “day’s eye,” owing to its sun-like appearance — a yellow disk at the center surrounded by rays of white petals.
Closely resembling the Ox-eye Daisy, Shasta daisies are taller and have larger flowers. Don’t confuse the Shasta daisy, Leucanthemum x superbum, which blooms in early summer, with the September-blooming Montauk daisy, Nipponanthemum nipponicum, which displays a similar flower produced on a shrubby, mounding perennial.
EASY TO GROW
Shasta daisies are easy to grow and this garden favorite is excellent in a border, where its glossy foliage makes it attractive even when not in bloom. When purchased at a nursery, Shasta daisies soon form dense colonies that flower profusely when established, making an attractive statement in the garden. These charming flowers are borne individually on single stems that remain stiff and erect.
This sun-loving perennial has a long blooming period that generally begins in June and, if dead-headed, will continue into September. The fact that it is drought-tolerant makes it a good choice for a xeriscape garden. Xeriscape refers to a landscape whose plants are specifically chosen because they can withstand hot, dry weather and survive with a minimum of water. Shasta daisies grow best in full sun in soil that is rich in organic matter and drains well. In winter, if soil is too wet the plants will rot.
It’s best to begin with some container-grown nursery plants in spring after all danger of frost has passed. Prepare the soil to a depth of about 12 to 18 inches, working in some peat moss, leaf mold, compost or well-rotted manure. Space plants about 18 inches apart, making sure to water well with a liquid fertilizer. Since they are heavy feeders, you will need to fertilize again when flower buds form.
Shasta daisies are excellent flowers for cutting, as they will last up to 10 days in an arrangement.
If faded flowers are removed, your Shasta daisies will bloom longer. When dis-budding, wait until the flowers are withered and then carefully look for new flower buds lower down on the stem. Cut off the stem immediately above the new top bud. If there are no new buds, cut the stem off just above the soil level.
Cut your entire Shasta daisy planting down to about 3 inches above the soil level at the end of the growing season.
Division is the best way to propagate Shasta daisies. You will need to divide your clump every two to three years to keep it healthy. Take vigorous pieces from the outside of the planting and discard any central portions of the clump that are dried-out or weak-looking.
Cuttings can be taken to increase your plants. Cut off 5- to 6-inch stems right below a node, removing any flowers and leaves from the lower half of the stem. Dip about ¼-inch of the stem in a rooting medium and insert the cuttings about 2 inches deep into a container filled with damp potting soil. With your finger, gently tamp the soil to remove any air pockets, and lightly mist the cuttings. Cover with a clear plastic bag and place in a shady spot for two to five weeks. After a few weeks, tug gently to see it the cuttings have rooted.
Shasta daisies also can be propagated by seeds, which should be harvested at the end of the blooming season. Since the biggest and healthiest blooms will produce the best seeds, it’s a good idea to tie a piece of colorful wool or string on the best flower while it’s in full bloom to remind you to leave that flower until the end of the season.
Wrapping a piece of netting around the bloom will prevent seeds from spilling on the ground. Snip the seed head and place it in a tray to completely dry out. Store the seeds in an envelop