Hello! As a mature daisy plant, I can tell you that the very best way to create more of me is by division. This method works because it directly utilizes my established, vigorous energy. Every two to three years, in the early spring or after my main flowering period in the autumn, I start to feel a bit crowded in my pot. My center may become woody, and my growth might not be as lush. This is the perfect signal to you that I am ready to be divided. Gently lift my entire self from the soil, preserving as much of my root system as possible. Using your hands or a sharp, clean knife, tease my clump apart into several smaller sections. Each new section should have a healthy portion of my roots and several of my growing shoots (or "eyes"). This process invigorates me and instantly creates multiple new, independent plants that are genetic clones of me and will flower prolifically.
If you wish to create new versions of me without disturbing my main form, taking stem cuttings is an excellent technique. In the late spring or early summer, look for my new, healthy, non-flowering stems. These shoots are full of potential and root easily. Using a sterile blade, make a clean cut just below a leaf node (the point where a leaf joins my stem) on a piece about 3-4 inches long. Gently remove the leaves from the lower half of this cutting. To encourage my roots to emerge more quickly, you may dip the cut end into a rooting hormone powder. Then, plant my cutting into a small pot filled with a moist, well-draining potting mix. Cover the pot with a clear plastic bag to maintain high humidity around my leaves, which prevents me from wilting before my new roots can form. Place me in a warm, bright spot, but out of direct, harsh sunlight.
For the truly patient gardener, you can grow new daisies from my seeds. This method offers the joy of watching my entire life cycle unfold, from my very beginning. After my flowers fade and dry on the stem, you can collect the small, dark seeds from my spent flower heads. These seeds hold the blueprint for a new plant, though it may not be an exact replica of me due to potential cross-pollination. Sow my seeds indoors in late winter, pressing them lightly into the surface of a seed-starting mix, as I need light to germinate. Keep the soil consistently moist and warm, and within two to three weeks, you should see my first tiny seedlings emerge. Once they have a few sets of true leaves and the danger of frost has passed, they can be hardened off and transplanted outside. This method requires more time, as I will not flower in my first year, but will instead focus my energy on building a strong root system.
No matter which method you choose, my needs for successful establishment are consistent. I require a well-draining growing medium; a mix of potting soil, perlite, and coco coir is perfect for me. I abhor having my roots sit in waterlogged soil, as it will cause them to rot. While I am developing my new root system, I need consistent, gentle moisture—not sogginess. Bright, indirect light is my best friend during this vulnerable stage; direct, hot sun will scorch my tender new leaves and dry me out too quickly. Once I am established in my own pot and showing signs of new growth, you can begin to treat me like a mature daisy, gradually acclimating me to full sun and beginning a regular watering and feeding schedule.
