? Seed Treatment
- Cold Stratification:
- Place seeds on a moist paper towel, seal in a plastic bag, and refrigerate for 2–4 weeks at 35–40°F (1–4°C).
- Check periodically to ensure the medium remains moist (not soggy or moldy).
- Light-dependent germination: Do not cover seeds with soil — they need light to sprout.
? Sowing Instructions
- When to Sow:
- Indoors: Start seeds 6–8 weeks before the last frost date.
- Outdoors: Direct sow in late fall (for natural stratification) or early spring after frost.
- Soil Requirements:
- Prefers well-draining, fertile soil.
- Soil pH: 6.0–7.0 (slightly acidic to neutral).
- Light Requirements:
- Needs full sun (at least 6 hours daily) for best bloom and growth.
- Sowing Depth:
- Surface sow seeds — gently press them into the soil but do not bury.
- Mist lightly to keep seeds in place.
- Watering:
- Keep soil consistently moist but never soggy until germination.
- Once established, Painted Daisy is moderately drought-tolerant.
- Germination Time:
- Seeds typically germinate in 10–31 days under ideal conditions.
- Temperature for Germination:
- Maintain soil temperature at 65–70°F (18–21°C).
- Spacing:
- Thin or transplant seedlings 12–18 inches (30–45 cm) apart.
? Growing Tips
- Tanacetum coccineum produces vivid, daisy-like flowers in shades of red, pink, and white with yellow centers.
- Great for cut flower gardens, pollinator borders, and cottage-style plantings.
- Deadhead spent blooms to extend flowering.
- Plants are deer-resistant and repel certain pests, making them great companions in vegetable gardens.
Enjoy cheerful blooms and natural pest protection with the lovely Painted Daisy! ??