Arctic Daisy

Water Arctic Daisy sparingly but regularly. Water the plants deeply, and then allow the topsoil to dry out slightly before watering again. While the plant prefers evenly moist soil, it won’t tolerate waterlogging. The plant can also tolerate some drought, but too much dryness may lead to slow growth or wilting of the foliage. Use a moisture meter to check the dryness of the soil.

Arctic Daisy is not fussy about its light but it does prefer some shade or part shade. Direct sunlight can damage the foliage of the plant. While it does survive in full sun, the leaves may lose some of their vibrancy. In areas with intense sunlight, try to give the plant some afternoon shade to ensure it stays flat and blooms for a longer time.

Arctic Daisy prefers a cool climate in the range of 45 to 65°F (7 to 18°C). It can tolerate minimum temperatures up to 40°F (4.5°C), but be aware that extreme temperatures can cause damage to the plant. It is not frost-tolerant, so when night temperatures dip below 40°F (4°C), cover the plant with an insulating layer of mulch.

Ordinary indoor air humidity is suitable for the Arctic Daisy, but they prefer cooler, more humid conditions. If the humidity falls below 40%, the leaves may begin to curl. Use a humidifier to bring the levels back up, or increase the humidity by misting the plant daily.

Arctic Daisy grows best in a sandy, loamy soil that’s rich in organic matter. It needs well-drained soil with a neutral pH range of 6.5-7.5. Make sure the soil is light, loose, and airy to ensure the roots are able to breathe. Adding compost or aged manure will also provide essential nutrients to the plant.

Fertilize Arctic Daisy two to three times a month in spring and summer. A balanced liquid fertilizer will provide all necessary nutrients and minerals to the plant. Avoid fertilizing during winter, as that can lead to artificial growth and weaken the plant. Make sure you water the plant thoroughly before and after fertilizing.

One of the key problems when keeping Arctic Daisy is pests, which can affect its growth and health. Aphids, mealybugs, whiteflies, and spider mites may infest your plant. To deal with pests, use a damp cloth to wipe off the insects and their eggs. Insecticidal soaps and oils can also be used to kill them. If the infestation is severe, you may need to move the plant outdoors and spray it with an insecticide to fully eradicate them.

Arctic Daisy needs to be repotted every two to three years during spring, when the weather starts to get warmer. Before repotting, gently shake off the old soil from the root ball. After repotting, water the plant thoroughly to ensure the soil is evenly moist. Make sure you don’t expose the roots to too much sun or wind, as it can be damaging to the plant.

Arctic Daisy doesn’t require much pruning and it’s best to leave it to its own devices. If the foliage begins to look weak and limp, prune off the dead leaves and stems to encourage new growth. Prune off the damaged or diseased parts of the plant, and remember to use clean gardening scissors to minimize the chances of spreading viruses or fungi.

Mulching the flowers can help them to thrive and stay healthy. Use organic mulch such as straw, pine bark, or shredded leaves to help retain moisture, and prevent the roots from getting scorched by the summer sun. Make sure you don’t weigh it down too heavily, as that can lead to poor drainage and root rot.

Propagating Arctic Daisy is usually done by division. In early spring, dig up the plants, divide them into sections, and replant them in separate pots. You can also harvest seeds from the dried flowers and sow them in well-draining soil after all danger of frost has passed. Keep the soil consistently moist until the seedlings emerge, and then proceed as normal.

Arctic Daisy doesn’t require additional support when grown outdoors. Indoor plants may require staking or a trellis to keep them upright. This will also help the flowers to reach maximum size.

Arctic Daisy doesn’t need a rest period, but it’s still beneficial to give it a break when possible. During winter, when temperatures are cold and darkness is longer, the plant may enter a state of dormancy where it stops flowering and doesn’t require much care. You can also trim off the dead leaves and stems during this period.

No, Arctic Daisy is not toxic to pets. This plant is not the same as other daisy plants that are potentially toxic, so there’s no need to worry if your pet ingests it.