Daisies are a widespread and recognizable group of flowers, celebrated for their simple, cheerful appearance in perennial gardens and floral arrangements. These blooms are popular with home gardeners and florists alike, leading to high demand. Determining the exact cost of a daisy is not straightforward because the price is highly variable, depending on whether you are purchasing seeds, a potted plant, or a single cut stem. The final price is influenced by the specific variety, the format of the purchase, and the type of vendor.
Cost of Daisies Based on Purchase Format
The least expensive method for acquiring daisies is purchasing them as seeds. A standard packet of seeds for common varieties like the Shasta daisy generally falls within a price range of $2.50 to $5.00. This small investment yields dozens of seeds, making it an economical choice for gardeners.
Potted plants or starters provide an immediate bloom. A small 4-inch pot of a common daisy, such as a Boston Daisy, may cost around $5.00 at a garden center. A 4-inch pot of the more decorative Gerbera daisy often sells for a higher price, typically between $7.00 and $8.00. Larger containers or hanging baskets of mature plants command a significantly higher price.
The highest price point per unit is the cut flower stem, intended for immediate use in a bouquet. A single, fresh-cut daisy stem at a retail florist generally averages between $2.00 and $4.00. This price reflects the cost of growing, harvesting, shipping, and maintaining the flower’s freshness until it reaches the buyer.
Pricing by Daisy Variety
The specific species of daisy plays a substantial role in determining its market value. The hardy and easily propagated Shasta daisy (Leucanthemum x superbum) and the smaller English daisy (Bellis perennis) are generally situated at the lower end of the pricing scale. These varieties are robust perennials, making them widely available and relatively inexpensive.
In contrast, the Gerbera daisy consistently sells for a higher price, especially as a cut flower. Gerberas are prized for their large, vibrant blooms and wide spectrum of colors, making them highly desirable for professional floral design. The increased cost is due to the specialized greenhouse production required to grow them consistently and their high demand as a premium floral element. Specialized or rare cultivars of any daisy type will carry a price premium due to their limited supply and increased breeding difficulty.
How Vendor and Volume Affect Pricing
The final cost is heavily influenced by the retail environment and the quantity purchased. Florists typically represent the highest price tier, as their cost includes expert labor for custom arrangements, convenience, and specialized flower selection. This markup covers the artistic service provided.
Grocery stores and big-box retailers offer a mid-range price point, often selling daisies in pre-made bunches at a lower price per stem than a dedicated florist. Nurseries and dedicated garden centers provide the best value for seeds and potted plants, often offering bulk discounts on trays of starter plants.
Purchasing daisies in volume offers a significant reduction in the cost per unit across all formats. Seasonal and geographical factors also introduce price fluctuations. Demand for cut flowers spikes around major holidays like Mother’s Day, causing price increases. Prices may also be higher in regions where the flowers must be shipped long distances from the growing source.