Renee's Garden Daisy, Fragrant Chocolate (Heirloom)

Soil & Water: Chocolate daisies, native to the mesas and plains of the Southwest, thrive in average soil, but require good drainage to thrive; if soil is heavy clay, add organic material to improve drainage before sowing. Plant in large groups in full sun near where you walk for maximum fragrance impact.

Planting & Growing:Directly Outdoors: In the spring, several weeks after the last frost date, sow in a sunny garden spot with excellent drainage. Sow 2" apart and cover lightly. Keep moist but not soggy while awaiting germination. When seedlings are well established, thin to 6" apart so plants have room to mature. Indoors: Start seeds indoors about 6 weeks before night temperatures are above 50°F. Sow seeds 2 - 3" apart in a container of seed starting mix and cover lightly. Keep seedbed moist but not soggy while awaiting germination. When outdoor weather is warm and settled both day and night, plant seedlings 6" apart in a sunny, well-drained garden spot.Deadhead spent flowers regularly to encourage re-blooming. Blossoms are an important source of nectar for pollinators and beneficial insects. Plants die to the ground in winter, returning in spring and gaining size over the seasons.