Shasta daisies (Leucanthemum x superbum) are a popular and easy-to-grow flowering perennial. They typically bloom in the late spring and early summer months, from May to June. If your Shasta daisies are not flowering, there are a few possible reasons why. One reason could be that the plant is not getting enough sunlight. Another possibility is that the plant is not getting enough water. Shasta daisies need to be kept consistently moist but not waterlogged. If the soil is too dry, it can cause the buds to wilt and not open. Finally, if you have recently transplanted your Shasta daisies, they may not flower in the first season as they adjust to their new location.
Common Reasons Why Shasta Daisy Isn’t Blooming
There are several common reasons why Shasta daisies may not be blooming. One reason could be improper pruning. Remove spent flowers regularly to encourage new growth and blooming, but be careful not to over-prune or remove too many flower buds. Another reason could be improper fertilizing. Shasta daisies benefit from fertilization in the spring, but be sure to use a balanced fertilizer and not to over-fertilize, as this can cause excessive foliage growth at the expense of flowers. Frost can also damage flower buds and prevent blooming. If your area has experienced a frost, the lack of blooms could be the reason. Another factor to consider is the amount of sunlight the plant receives. Shasta daisies need at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily to thrive. Finally, the plant's location and weather conditions can also affect its ability to bloom. Shasta daisies may not flower as well in containers as in the ground, and extreme heat or drought can also affect blooming.
Pruning Shasta Daisy To Help It Bloom
Pruning Shasta daisies can help them to bloom by removing spent flowers and encouraging new growth. It is important to remove spent flowers regularly, as this will help to keep the plant looking neat and tidy, and it will also encourage the plant to produce new flowers. When pruning, use sharp, clean pruning shears and remove the spent flower stems at the base of the plant. Avoid over-pruning or removing too many flower buds, as this can inhibit blooming. Pruning Shasta daisies in the spring, after they have finished blooming, can also help to encourage new growth and blooming for the following season.
Fertilizing Shasta Daisy To Help It Bloom
Fertilizing your Shasta daisy can definitely help it to bloom, but it is important to use the correct type of fertilizer and follow proper application guidelines. Shasta daisies benefit from a balanced fertilizer, such as a 10-10-10 or 20-20-20 formula. Avoid fertilizers high in nitrogen, as nitrogen encourages foliage growth at the expense of flowering. There are many different types of fertilizers that you can use on your Shasta daisy, including traditional chemical fertilizers and organic options like compost, coffee grounds and eggshells. Miracle Grow is a popular brand of commercial fertilizer that can be used on Shasta daisies, but be sure to follow the instructions on the package for proper application. Bone meal is another option that can help to provide phosphorous, which is essential for flowering. Regardless of the type of fertilizer you choose, apply it at the recommended rate and frequency to avoid over-fertilizing, which can harm the plant. It is also a good idea to conduct a soil test to determine the specific nutrient needs of your Shasta daisy before fertilizing.
Get Shasta Daisy To Produce More Blooms
If your Shasta daisy is not producing as many blooms as you would like, there are a few things you can try to encourage it to bloom more. One thing you can try is deadheading, or removing spent flowers, to encourage the plant to produce new blooms. If your Shasta daisy has finished blooming for the season, you can try pruning the plant back to encourage new growth and a second blooming. Be sure to remove any dead or damaged stems and trim back the plant, but be careful not to over-prune or remove too many of the flower buds. To keep your Shasta daisy blooming throughout the season, it is important to provide it with the proper care and conditions. This includes giving it plenty of sunlight (at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day), keeping the soil consistently moist (but not waterlogged), and protecting it from frost and extreme weather.
Why Shasta Daisy Isn’t Blooming
- Not enough sunlight
- Not enough water
- Over-fertilizing
- Recent transplantation
- Frost damage
- Over-pruning or removing too many flower buds
- Extreme heat or drought
- Rootbound
