Swan River Daisy

Growing from Seed 

When to Plant:

·Temperate Zones: Sow in early spring or autumn. 

·Subtropical: Autumn to early winter to avoid summer humidity. 

· Arid: Autumn or early spring to avoid extreme heat. 

· Cool Mountain: Early summer

· Tropical: Winter

Soil Preparation:

· Use welldraining, sandy loam; amend clay soils with compost or sand. 

 Ideal pH:

· 6.0–7.0.

· Avoid waterlogged conditions. 

Sowing Seeds:

· Surface sow seeds; light aids germination.

· Press gently into soil; do not cover. 

· Space seeds 20–30 cm apart.

·  Water with a fine mist to keep moist. 

· Germination: 14–21 days at 18–22°C. 

Transplanting;

· Thin seedlings to 20–30 cm apart once 5 cm tall.

· Suitable for pots (ensure drainage). 

Growing Conditions 

Sunlight:

· Full sun (6+ hours daily) to part shade (afternoon shade in hot regions). 

Watering:

· Moderate watering; let soil dry slightly between sessions.

· Drought tolerant once established. 

Soil&Fertiliser:

· Low nutrient needs. Apply balanced liquid fertilizer monthly in poor soils.

· Avoid overfeeding. 

Maintenance:

· Deadhead spent blooms to encourage flowering. 

· Mulch lightly to retain moisture and suppress weeds. 

Pests & Diseases:

· Aphids: Spray with soapy water or neem oil. 

· Root rot: Prevent with well draining soil. 

Seed Harvesting:

· Allow flowers to dry on the plant.

· Collect seed heads before they split. 

· Store in a cool, dry place in labelled envelopes. 

Companion Planting Guide 

Benefits of Companions:

· Attract pollinators (bees, butterflies). 

· Deter pests (e.g., rosemary repels aphids). 

· Enhance garden aesthetics with contrasting colors/textures. 

Recommended Companions:

Native Plants:

· Kangaroo Paw: Contrasting textures; similar water needs. 

· Everlasting Daisies: Harmonious blooms; drought tolerant. 

Herbs:

· Lavender, Thyme, Rosemary: Pest repellent; low water needs. 

Flowering Companions:

· Alyssum: Ground cover; attracts beneficial insects. 

· Calendula: Bright colours; pollinator friendly. 

Plants to Avoid:

· Water loving species (e.g., lettuce, ferns): Swan River Daisies prefer drier soil. 

· Tall, shading plants (e.g., corn): May block sunlight. 

Design Tips: 

· Colour Schemes: Pair purple Swan River Daisies with yellow Kangaroo Paw for contrast. 

· Rockeries/Mass Planting: Use as edging or fill gaps between succulents. 

· Pots: Combine with trailing lobelia or dwarf herbs.