How to Sow and Grow Pastel Painted Daisy Seeds in the UK

Pastel Painted Daisies (Chrysanthemum carinatum) are vibrant, tri-coloured flowers that create a burst of pastel shades in gardens, containers, and flower beds. With their long stems and beautiful, eye-catching petals, they are popular as cut flowers and for floral displays. These daisies thrive in UK gardens and self-seed readily, ensuring continuous blooms year after year.

Why Grow Pastel Painted Daisies?

• Height and Spread: Grows to heights of 18-36 inches, providing an elegant presence in gardens.
• Self-Seeding: This variety naturally self-seeds, ensuring repeat blooms without replanting.
• Cut Flower Favorite: Their long-lasting blooms and unique colours make them ideal for floral arrangements.
• Pollinator Friendly: Attracts bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects.

When and Where to Sow Pastel Painted Daisy Seeds

• Indoor Sowing: Start seeds indoors anytime under cover in a heated greenhouse or on a warm, sunny windowsill.
• Outdoor Sowing: Sow seeds directly outdoors from late winter (February) to early summer (June).
• Ideal Location: Choose a spot with well-drained soil and full sun for maximum blooming.

Step-by-Step Guide to Sowing Pastel Painted Daisy Seeds

Sowing Indoors

1. Containers: Use seed trays or small pots filled with high-quality, fine-grade seed compost.
2. Sowing Depth: Sow seeds on the surface of the compost and lightly press them down without covering them, as they need light to germinate.
3. Temperature: Maintain a consistent temperature of 18-24°C (64-75°F) for optimal germination.
4. Watering: Water gently to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged.

Sowing Outdoors

1. Soil Preparation: Prepare the soil by loosening it and enriching it with compost or organic matter to improve drainage and fertility.
2. Sowing: Scatter seeds thinly over the soil surface and press them lightly into the soil. Do not cover them deeply, as they require light to germinate.
3. Watering: Water the soil lightly to settle the seeds.

Germination and Transplanting

• Germination Time: Seeds typically germinate within 5-21 days under ideal conditions.
• Transplanting: Once the seedlings develop two true leaves and are sturdy enough to handle, transplant them to trays or their final growing positions outdoors.
• Hardening Off: Before planting outdoors, gradually acclimatise the seedlings by exposing them to outdoor conditions for 10-15 days. Avoid planting out during frost or cold weather.
• Spacing and Final Planting: Space plants 12-18 inches apart to allow proper airflow and room for growth. Plant in a sunny spot with well-drained soil to ensure healthy growth and abundant flowering.

Caring for Pastel Painted Daisy Plants

• Watering: Water regularly during dry periods, ensuring the soil remains moist but not waterlogged.
• Fertilisation: Apply a balanced fertiliser every few weeks during the growing season to encourage continuous blooms.
• Deadheading: Remove spent flowers regularly to prolong the flowering period and encourage new blooms.
• Weeding: Keep the area around the plants weed-free to reduce competition for nutrients.

Common Questions About Growing Pastel Painted Daisies

• Do Pastel Painted Daisies come back every year? Yes, they are self-seeding, meaning they will naturally propagate and provide blooms year after year.
• Can they be grown in containers? Yes, they thrive in pots and containers. Ensure the container has good drainage and is placed in a sunny location.
• How long do they bloom? With proper care and deadheading, these daisies bloom from mid-summer through to early autumn.

By following this guide, you can enjoy a stunning display of colourful Pastel Painted Daisies, whether in a garden bed or container. With their long-lasting flowers and self-seeding nature, they are an excellent choice for creating vibrant, low-maintenance floral displays.

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