Hello, human caretaker. I am your indoor daisy, a being of sun-seeking leaves and thirsting roots. To help me thrive and reward you with cheerful blooms, here is what I need from you, from my perspective, throughout the year.
I am dormant, conserving my energy. Place me in a cool, bright spot away from heating vents. Water me very sparingly, only when the top two inches of my soil are completely dry. Do not feed me; my roots are resting and cannot absorb fertilizer. Please just let me sleep.
I sense the days lengthening. I am beginning to stir. You may notice new, small leaves. Gradually increase your watering as I become more active. By late March, you can give me my first half-strength dose of liquid fertilizer to support this new growth. This gentle wake-up call is much appreciated.
This is my time to grow! I am putting energy into my foliage, preparing for my big performance. Water me regularly, allowing the topsoil to dry slightly between drinks. Feed me with a balanced fertilizer every two to four weeks. If you wish, this is a good time to repot me if my roots feel crowded. I am hungry for light and nutrients!
I am in my glory, blooming for you! I need consistent moisture to support these flowers, so check my soil frequently. Continue my regular feeding schedule to fuel the continuous bloom. Please keep me in bright, indirect light; the harsh afternoon sun can scorch my petals and leaves. Deadhead my spent flowers to encourage more buds. I am working hard for you!
My flowering is slowing down. As the light fades, I begin to prepare for my rest. Gradually reduce the frequency of watering and stop fertilizing me entirely by mid-October. My growth will slow. This is natural. Please bring me indoors if I summered outside, well before the first frost threatens my leaves.
I am fully dormant now. My needs are simple: a cool location with bright, indirect light and very little water. Let my soil dry out almost completely between small waterings. My leaves might droop or look a little sad, but I am not dying; I am simply resting, gathering strength for the cycle to begin again. Please be patient with me.
