Gloriosa Daisy

Black-eyed Susan thrives in full sun to partial shade, with at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily for optimal flowering. These resilient plants adapt to a variety of soil types but prefer well-draining soil with moderate fertility. They tolerate drought and are relatively low maintenance once established. Sow seeds or transplant young plants in the spring or fall. Regular deadheading, or removing spent flowers, can encourage continuous blooming. These sunny, adaptable plants are perfect for garden borders, wildflower meadows, and pollinator gardens, where their cheerful yellow, daisy-like blooms add vibrant color and attract beneficial insects.

Sow indoors 5-7 weeks before last frost. Sow seeds 1/16" deep in pre-moistened seed starting mix. Keep moist until germination has occurred (7-14 days.) Can also be direct seeded outdoors after danger of frost has passed.

Transplant hardened seedlings outdoors after danger of frost has passes, spacing plants 12-18" apart in all directions. Keep well-watered until plants are established.

Black-Eyed Susan and Gloriosa daisies make excellent cut flowers with an average vase life of 7-10 days. Both plants are known for making their vase water cloudy or murky. This can be combatted by treating the water with a few drops of bleach.

CONSIDERATIONS:

Harvesting Black-eyed Susan seed is relatively easy, however isolation is necessary if more than one variety is being grown. Black-eyed Susan (diploid) could, in theory, be pollinated by Gloriosa daisy (tetraploid), however the offspring would be sterile. This is usually not of concern to the average gardener.

HARVESTING SEED:

After the heads have faded and turned brown, cut the heads from the plant and store in an open paper bag for 1-2 weeks to finish drying. Rub the seed heads or shake in a sealed container to release the seeds. Separate from the chaff by passing through a screen or winnowing. Store in an airtight container until ready to use.

SEED LONGETIVITY:

Black-eyed Susan seed will remain viable for 3 or more years when stored under ideal conditions.