Marguerite daisies (Argyranthemum frutescens) are cherished garden flowers, known for their abundant, daisy-like blooms that bring a cheerful aesthetic to any landscape. Native to the Canary Islands, these popular plants offer a continuous display of white, pink, or yellow flowers. With their shrubby form and prolific blossoms, Marguerite daisies are a favorite for adding long-lasting color to flower beds, borders, and containers, making them a delightful choice for many gardeners.
Growing Marguerites
Light Requirements
Marguerite daisies thrive in bright, direct sunlight, receiving at least six hours of sun daily. While they flourish in full sun, provide some afternoon shade in regions with extremely hot climates to protect them from intense heat. Adequate light supports vigorous growth and abundant flowering, ensuring the plants produce their characteristic vibrant blooms.
Soil Needs
These plants prefer fertile, well-draining soil with a pH that is neutral to slightly acidic, typically between 6.0 and 7.5. Although not particularly particular about soil type, amending the planting area with organic matter such as compost can improve drainage and provide essential nutrients. Good drainage prevents waterlogging, which can lead to root issues.
Watering
Consistent moisture is important, but avoid overwatering. After planting, water new plants frequently for a few weeks to help them establish. Once established, provide about an inch of water per week. Check soil moisture by inserting a finger one to two inches deep; if it feels dry, water. Container plants typically require more frequent watering than those in the ground due to faster drying.
Fertilizing
To promote continuous blooming and healthy growth, fertilize regularly during the growing season. A balanced all-purpose liquid fertilizer (e.g., 10-10-10) can be applied every four to six weeks. Follow package directions to prevent over-fertilization, which can harm the plants.
Pruning and Deadheading
Regular deadheading, which involves removing spent blooms, is an important practice for Marguerite daisies. This encourages new flowers and maintains a tidy, bushy appearance. While naturally shrubby, light trimming can promote bushier growth, especially after a flush of blooms. More substantial pruning can be done in late winter or early spring to remove dead or weak stems and shape the plant.
Common Issues
Marguerite daisies are generally resilient, but they can occasionally encounter common garden pests like aphids, spider mites, and thrips. Manage these pests with a strong jet of water or by applying insecticidal soap or neem oil. Overwatering can lead to root rot, while underwatering causes wilting, especially in hot weather.
They can also be susceptible to diseases like powdery mildew and root rot, especially in poorly drained or overly moist conditions. Preventing these issues involves proper soil drainage and avoiding overhead watering, which keeps foliage wet and encourages fungal growth. Yellowing leaves might indicate nutrient deficiencies, which can often be addressed by appropriate fertilization.
Winter Care and Propagation
In USDA hardiness zones 10 through 11, Marguerite daisies can be grown as short-lived perennials, typically lasting two to three years. In colder climates (below 40-41°F / 5°C), they are often treated as annuals or brought indoors for winter. To overwinter indoors, pot plants individually and place them in a cool room with indirect sunlight, maintaining consistent soil moisture.
Propagate Marguerite daisies through stem cuttings. Healthy, non-flowering stems, typically three to four inches long, should be taken in late summer or early spring. After removing lower leaves, dip the cut end in rooting hormone and plant in a moist, well-draining potting mix. Keep the soil consistently moist and provide bright, indirect light to encourage rooting, which typically occurs within a few weeks.