Livingstone Daisy

Soil Preparation 

 Soil Type:

• Well draining, sandy/gravelly soil.
• Amend clay soils with sand or compost. 

 pH:

• Slightly acidic to neutral (6.0–7.0). 

 Drainage:

• Raised beds or pots recommended for heavy soils. 

Sowing Seeds 

 Method:

• Surface sow seeds; press lightly into soil (no covering). 

 Spacing:

• 30 cm apart. 

 Watering:

• Mist gently to keep moist until germination (7–14 days). 

Soil Temperature:

• 10–25°C optimal for germination. 

Sunlight 

 Requirement:

• Full sun (4-6 hours daily).
• In hot inland areas, provide afternoon shade. 

Watering 

 Establishment:

• Water lightly until seedlings are sturdy. 

 Mature Plants:

• Drought tolerant; water sparingly (every 7–10 days) or when soil is dry.
• Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot. 

Fertilising 

 Type:

• Use slow release granular fertilizer at planting or diluted liquid fertilizer monthly. 
• Caution: Excess nitrogen causes leggy growth. 

Pests & Diseases 

 Pests:

• Slugs/snails use beer traps or iron-based pellets.
• Aphids spray with soapy water. 

 Diseases:

• Root rot avoid overwatering.
• Fungal issues in humidity improve airflow. 

Maintenance 

 Deadheading:

• Not required. 

 Pruning:

• Trim leggy stems to encourage bushiness. 

Seed Harvesting 

 Method:

• Let flowers dry on plant.
• Collect brown seed pods and store in a cool, dry place. 

Companion Planting

Good Companions 

• Drought Tolerant Plants
• Lavender: Repels pests, shares sun/water needs. 
• Sedum: Matches soil and light requirements. 
• Portulaca: Complements colours, thrives in similar conditions. 

Australian Natives: 

• Swan River Daisy: Harmonizes aesthetically. 
• Kangaroo Paw: Contrasts height and texture. 

Herbs:

• Rosemary/Thyme: Deters pests, requires little water. 

Pollinator Attractors: 

• Alyssum: Attracts beneficial insects. 

Avoid Planting With 

• Water Loving Plants: e.g., Impatiens, ferns. 
• Tall, Shading Plants: e.g., Sunflowers, corn. 

Seasonal Tips

 Spring/Summer:

• Watch for heat stress; mulch with gravel (not organic) to retain dryness. 

 Autumn/Winter:

• In subtropical zones, protect from heavy rains. 

 FAQs 

• Leggy Growth? More sun, less fertilizer. 
• Self-Seeding? Yes, allow dried flowers to drop seeds. 
• Frost Tolerance? Protect seedlings; mature plants tolerate light frost. 

Final Tips:

• Livingstone Daisies thrive on neglect!
• Perfect for busy gardeners or xeriscaping.
• Pair with other tough, sun loving plants for a vibrant, waterwise garden.