Cutleaf Daisy
Planting Instructions for Engelmannia peristenia (Engelmann’s Daisy)
1. Direct Sowing Outdoors – Fall & Spring
Site Selection
Sunlight Needs:
Requires full sun (minimum 6–8 hours of direct sunlight per day).
Ideal Location:
Open prairies, wildflower meadows, roadsides, erosion-prone areas, and pollinator gardens.
Soil Preparation
Soil Type:
Prefers well-drained, sandy or loamy soils, but also tolerates rocky or calcareous soils.
Soil pH:
Neutral to slightly alkaline (pH 6.5–8.0).
Prep Steps:
Loosen top 3–6 inches of soil.
Remove weeds and debris.
Optional: incorporate light compost in poor soils (avoid over-fertilization).
Seed Preparation
Stratification:
Cold stratification is helpful but not required.
For spring sowing, 30 days of cold-moist stratification can improve germination.
Scarification:
Not necessary.
Planting Depth & Spacing
Depth:
Sow seeds at 1/8 inch deep or lightly press them into the soil surface.
Spacing:
Space seeds or seedlings 12–18 inches apart to allow for mature growth and airflow.
Watering
After Sowing:
Water gently to keep the soil moist but not saturated.
During Establishment:
Maintain moderate moisture during germination (typically 10–20 days).
Once Established:
Drought-tolerant; requires only occasional deep watering in prolonged dry periods.
Best Time to Sow Outdoors
Fall Sowing:
Preferred for natural stratification and early establishment.
Sow after first frost before the ground freezes.
Spring Sowing:
Sow after last frost date; consider cold stratifying indoors for 30 days before planting for improved germination.
2. Starting Seeds Indoors for Spring Transplanting
Timing
Start seeds 6–8 weeks before the last expected frost date in your region.
Indoor Sowing Process
Use seed trays or small pots filled with a well-draining seed-starting mix.
Surface sow or plant seeds 1/8 inch deep, then gently press into the soil.
Mist lightly and keep moist (not soggy).
Provide bright indirect light or grow lights; maintain temperature around 65–75°F.
Germination Time
Typically 10–20 days, sometimes longer if conditions vary.
Transplanting Outdoors
Harden off seedlings 1–2 weeks before transplanting by gradually exposing them to outdoor conditions.
Transplant after the last frost, spacing plants 12–18 inches apart in well-prepared soil.
