Livingstone Daisies (Mesembryanthemum criniflorum) offer a vibrant display with their brilliant, daisy-like flowers. These low-growing plants have a spreading habit, making them a popular choice for ground cover, rock gardens, and containers. While native to South Africa, Livingstone Daisies are typically grown as cheerful annuals in many climates.
Planting Livingstone Daisies
Sunlight provides the energy for Livingstone Daisies to produce their abundant blooms. These plants require at least six hours of direct sunlight daily to thrive. It is also common for the flowers to close naturally on cloudy days or in the evening hours.
The ideal growing medium for Livingstone Daisies is well-draining, sandy or loamy soil. Proper drainage is important to prevent root rot. A slightly acidic to neutral pH range, specifically between 6.0 and 7.0, supports healthy growth. Prioritize excellent drainage.
For direct outdoor planting, sow seeds after the last frost. For an earlier start, seeds can be sown indoors six to eight weeks before the last frost. Seeds need light for germination, so they should be surface-sown and then very lightly covered with a fine layer of soil or vermiculite. Once established, mature plants benefit from spacing of six to twelve inches apart, which allows for good air circulation and to prevent overcrowding.
Ongoing Maintenance
While Livingstone Daisies exhibit some drought tolerance once established, consistent watering is beneficial, especially during extended dry periods. Allow the soil to dry out completely between waterings to prevent root rot. Newly planted seedlings require more frequent, gentle watering than mature plants.
Livingstone Daisies are low-maintenance regarding nutrients. If the soil is particularly poor, a balanced liquid fertilizer can be applied at half strength once a month during the blooming season. Avoid fertilizers high in nitrogen, as this promotes foliage growth at the expense of flower production, leading to few blooms.
Deadheading, or removing spent blooms, is not strictly necessary for continuous flowering due to their prolific nature. However, deadheading can improve the overall appearance of the plant, promoting a tidier and more uniform habit. This practice can also help prevent self-seeding.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Livingstone Daisies are robust and generally resistant to most common pests and diseases. Occasionally, issues such as aphids may appear on new growth, or powdery mildew could develop in conditions with high humidity or poor air circulation. Address these issues using organic solutions like insecticidal soap for pests or improving plant spacing for better air circulation to mitigate fungal problems.
A lack of blooms often indicates unsuitable environmental conditions. The most frequent reason for sparse or absent flowers is insufficient sunlight. Over-fertilization, particularly with high-nitrogen products, can also divert the plant’s energy towards foliage rather than flower development. Additionally, poor drainage can hinder blooming.