Parry's Townsend Daisy

What you'll need:

Seeds or young Parry's Townsend Daisy plants (if seeds are hard to find, try sourcing them from a local nursery or online native plant supplier)

A pot with good drainage holes or a garden spot that has loose, sandy soil

Sandy or gritty soil mix (you can make this by mixing regular soil with sand or perlite for better drainage)

Small rocks or gravel to place at the bottom of pots if container planting

Watering can with a gentle spout

When to start:

Parry's Townsend Daisy is a wildflower suited for cooler climates. The best time to plant is in early spring when frost danger has passed but it’s still cool enough for the plant to establish itself before summer heat kicks in.

Choosing the right spot:

This daisy loves full sun and well-drained soil. It thrives in dry conditions and rocky soils, so avoid areas where water tends to pool after rain. If planting in pots, pick a sunny windowsill or balcony where it can get at least 6 hours of sunlight daily.

If you’re using seeds:

1. Fill your pot or seed tray with a mix of sandy soil.
2. Lightly scatter the seeds on the surface — don’t bury them too deep because they need light to germinate.
3. Sprinkle a very thin layer of sand over the seeds (just enough to cover them lightly).
4. Gently water the soil until it feels damp but not soggy.
5. Place the pot or tray in a sunny spot.
6. Keep the soil moist (but not wet) and wait for sprouts to appear, which could take about 7-14 days depending on temperature.

If you’re using young plants:

1. Dig a hole slightly larger than the root ball of the plant.
2. Place the plant into the hole and gently backfill with your sandy soil mix.
3. Press down lightly around the base of the plant to stabilize it, but don’t press too hard.
4. Water immediately after planting to help the roots settle in.

Plant spacing:

If planting multiple daisies, leave about 8-12 inches between each plant. This gives them room to grow without competing too much for nutrients.

Watering:

• These daisies like dry conditions, so water sparingly. Let the soil dry out completely between waterings.
• When you do water, give it a good soak but ensure excess water drains away quickly (remember, they hate soggy feet).

Feeding:

• Parry’s Townsend Daisy doesn’t need heavy feeding. If you feel the need to fertilize, use a diluted liquid fertilizer once a month during its growing season (spring through early summer).
• Avoid over-fertilizing, as these plants thrive best in poor soil.

Sunlight & Temperature:

• Ensure your daisy gets plenty of sunlight — aim for 6-8 hours a day.
• They're quite hardy and prefer cooler temperatures, but they can handle some heat as long as the soil stays dry.

Common problems:

• Yellowing leaves? You might be overwatering. Reduce watering and check that your soil is draining properly.
• No flowers? Make sure the plant is getting enough sunlight. If it’s too shaded, it may not bloom as expected.
• Pests: These daisies don’t usually attract many pests, but watch out for aphids. If you see any, simply spray them off with water or gently wipe them away.

When to enjoy the blooms:

• Parry's Townsend Daisy typically blooms in late spring to early summer. The flowers are small and daisy-like, with white petals surrounding a yellow center.
• There’s no “harvesting” per se since these are ornamental flowers meant for beauty rather than eating or cutting. However, if you’d like to collect seeds:
  • Wait until the flower heads dry out and turn brown.
  • Shake the dried flower head over a piece of paper to collect the tiny seeds.
  • Store seeds in a cool, dry place for next year’s planting.

How to care for blooms:

• Deadhead spent flowers (remove old blooms) to encourage more flowering throughout the season.
• Don’t cut back the plant until late fall or early winter when it has completely died back naturally.

Q: Can I grow Parry's Townsend Daisy indoors?

A: While it’s possible to grow indoors, this plant prefers outdoor conditions, especially in full sun. If you must grow it inside, choose a bright, sunny spot like a south-facing window, and make sure the soil drains really well.

Q: My daisy isn't blooming. What should I do?

A: Lack of blooms could mean it’s not getting enough sunlight. Move it to a brighter location. Also, ensure you’re not overwatering, as too much moisture can prevent flowering.

Q: Is this plant safe around pets?

A: Yes, Parry's Townsend Daisy is non-toxic to pets, so it’s a pet-friendly addition to your garden!

Q: How do I protect my daisy from heavy rains?

A: If heavy rain is in the forecast, you can cover your daisy temporarily with a breathable fabric like burlap or move potted plants under shelter. Too much water can lead to root rot.

Q: Can I divide the plant?

A: Yes! Every few years, you can carefully dig up the plant and divide the root ball to propagate new plants. Do this in early spring for the best results.