When to Start Swan River Daisy Seeds

About Swan River Daisies

• Swan River daisies, botanically Brachyscome or Brachycome iberidifolia, grow in swampy areas or at the edges of flowing water in their native Australia as well as on the hillsides. They prefer rich soil, sun and well-drained moist soil, though they also tolerate some dryness. They do best in cool summer climates, though some of the modern hybrids do well in heat and humidity. Low and spreading, Swan River daisies are often used in planter boxes, as edgings and for the front of the border.

Starting Seeds Indoors

• Six to eight weeks before your date of last frost, plant Swan River daisy seeds in small pots, about 2 inches wide, four seeds per pot. Push the seeds about 1/8 inch into the potting mix and cover with a thin layer of soil. The seeds need light to germinate, so avoid covering too thickly. Optimum temperature for germination is 65 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit. You should see small seedlings in about 10 days. Put the seedlings in a sunny window or give them 14 to 16 hours of artificial light daily. Remove all but the strongest seedling from each pot a month later. Plant outside after your date of last frost.

Sowing Outdoors

• Sow Swan River daisy seeds outside after the date of last frost, when the soil temperature has warmed slightly to about 60 F. Cover lightly with fine potting mix or sand and keep moist until you see the small seedlings. Thin to about 6 inches apart a month later. You can make more sowings every few weeks to extend bloom throughout the summer.

Aftercare

• Water your small plants frequently but allow the surface of the soil to dry to the touch between waterings. You can let them dry out more as they develop a stronger root system. After plants have finished most of their blooming, cut them back to a few inches and fertilize for another round of blossoms.