How to Grow Shasta Daisy in Colorado

Shasta daisies (Leucanthemum × superbum) are cherished for their vibrant, cheerful blooms and ability to thrive in a variety of conditions. For gardeners in Colorado, these perennial flowers not only add beauty to landscapes but also attract pollinators, making them a valuable addition to any garden. This article will guide you through the essentials of growing Shasta daisies in Colorado, covering everything from selecting the right variety to soil preparation, planting, care, and pest management.

Understanding Shasta Daisies

Before diving into the specifics of cultivation, it’s important to understand what Shasta daisies are. Developed by horticulturist Luther Burbank in the early 1900s, Shasta daisies are hybrids derived from several species of daisies, including the oxeye daisy and the English daisy. These flowers typically feature large white petals surrounding a sunny yellow center and can grow up to 3 feet tall.

Varieties of Shasta Daisies

Shasta daisies come in several varieties that differ in height, flower size, and bloom time:

• Snowcap: A compact variety that reaches about 18 inches tall, ideal for borders.
• Becky: Known for its sturdy stems and large flowers, reaching heights of 24 to 30 inches.
• Alaska: A taller variety that can grow up to 36 inches and features large blooms.

Choosing the right variety depends on your garden’s design and desired aesthetics.

Climate Considerations

Colorado’s climate can be challenging due to its high elevation, fluctuating temperatures, and varying rainfall patterns. However, Shasta daisies are well-suited for this environment as they prefer full sun and can withstand drought conditions once established.

Ideal Growing Conditions

1. Sunlight: Shasta daisies thrive in full sunlight (at least 6 hours a day). Select a site that receives ample light for optimal growth.

2. Soil: The ideal soil for Shasta daisies is well-draining and rich in organic matter. They prefer slightly acidic to neutral pH levels (6.0 to 7.5).

3. Watering: While Shasta daisies are drought-tolerant once established, they require consistent moisture during their initial growth phase.

Preparing the Soil

Proper soil preparation is crucial for the successful growth of Shasta daisies. Follow these steps:

1. Testing Soil pH: Before planting, test your soil’s pH level using a home testing kit or send a sample to a local extension service.

2. Amending the Soil: If your soil is too alkaline or lacks organic matter, amend it with compost or well-rotted manure. This improves drainage and provides essential nutrients.

3. Tilling: Loosen the soil by tilling it to a depth of at least 12 inches. This helps aerate the soil and allows roots to penetrate easily.

4. Drainage: If your garden has compacted or clay-heavy soil, consider creating raised beds or adding perlite or sand to improve drainage.

Planting Shasta Daisies

The best time to plant Shasta daisies in Colorado is in spring after the last frost date or in early fall. Here’s how to do it effectively:

1. Spacing: Space your plants about 18 to 24 inches apart to allow them room for growth and airflow.

2. Digging Holes: Dig holes that are slightly larger than the root ball of your daisies.

3. Transplanting: Gently remove the plants from their containers, taking care not to damage the roots. Place them in the holes and fill with soil, ensuring that the crown of the plant is level with the soil surface.

4. Watering After Planting: Water thoroughly after planting to help settle the soil around the roots.

Care and Maintenance

Once planted, proper care is essential for healthy growth:

Watering Schedule

• Water regularly during dry spells but avoid overwatering as soggy soil can lead to root rot.
• Use mulch around plants to help retain moisture and suppress weeds.

Fertilization

• Apply a balanced fertilizer (such as a 10-10-10 formula) during spring when new growth begins.
• Avoid excessive nitrogen as it may promote leaf growth at the expense of flowers.

Deadheading

To encourage continuous blooming throughout the summer months:

• Remove spent blooms by pinching or cutting them off just above a set of leaves.
• This not only promotes new flowers but also keeps your plants looking tidy.

Pruning

In late fall or early spring:

• Cut back dead foliage to about 3–4 inches above ground level.
• This helps prevent diseases and encourages new growth in spring.

Pest Management

While Shasta daisies are relatively pest-resistant, occasional issues may arise:

Common Pests

1. Aphids: These small insects can be managed with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
2. Slugs and Snails: Handpick or use traps filled with beer to reduce their population.
3. Fungal Diseases: Ensure good airflow around plants by spacing them adequately; avoid overhead watering to reduce humidity around leaves.

Preventative Measures

Implementing good gardening practices can help minimize pest problems:

• Rotate crops yearly.
• Maintain healthy plants through proper feeding and watering.
• Encourage beneficial insects like ladybugs that naturally control pest populations.

Winter Care

In Colorado’s cold winters, it’s vital to prepare your Shasta daisies for dormancy:

1. Mulching: Apply a layer of mulch around the base of plants before winter sets in to protect roots from freezing temperatures.

2. Avoid Overhead Watering: During winter months, limit watering since dormant plants require less moisture.

3. Cutting Back: As mentioned earlier, cut back dead foliage but leave some stems for winter interest if desired.

Conclusion

Growing Shasta daisies in Colorado can be rewarding as these resilient perennial flowers bring color and life into gardens while attracting beneficial pollinators. By following the guidelines outlined in this article—selecting appropriate varieties, preparing suitable soil conditions, implementing an effective watering schedule, managing pests properly, and caring for your plants during winter—you’ll be well on your way to cultivating these delightful blooms successfully in your Colorado garden.

With their stunning appearance and ability to thrive under diverse conditions, Shasta daisies are sure to become a cherished part of your landscape for years to come!