Tanacetum coccineum

Sowing and growing guidance

Tanacetum coccineum seeds germinate reliably in bright, warm conditions. Start indoors while frosts persist, then transplant after last frost, or direct sow after last frost; in mild climates, autumn sowing may bring earlier flowering. Provide full sun to light shade and well-drained, moderately fertile soil, avoiding waterlogged sites. Sow on the surface or barely cover and keep evenly moist until established. Plants form medium-height clumps with sturdy, upright stems; space to allow good air flow and clump development, following packet guidance. Water during dry spells, mulch lightly to conserve moisture, and deadhead to prolong display. In windy spots, a discreet support may help keep stems tidy.

• Provide full sun to light shade and well-drained, moderately fertile soil; avoid waterlogging.
• Start indoors while frosts persist; transplant after last frost. Direct sow after last frost; in mild climates, autumn sowing may be possible.
• Suitable for containers with adequate depth and drainage.
• Often visited by pollinating insects.
• Grown primarily for its daisy-like floral display.

How do I grow Tanacetum coccineum from seed?

Tanacetum coccineum seeds germinate best on the surface or with only a dusting of fine medium, as light helps trigger sprouting. Sow into trays or modules indoors while frosts persist, keep evenly moist but never waterlogged, and provide bright light at cool to mild room temperatures. Prick out to individual cells once true leaves form, then harden off gradually and transplant to their final spot after the last frost. Plants often flower the season after sowing, though an early indoor start can bring some first-year blooms. Keep seedlings spaced to avoid damping off and promote sturdy growth.

When should I sow painted daisy seeds after the last frost?

Start seeds indoors while frosts are still occurring, then transplant outside once all danger of frost has passed and the soil is workable. Alternatively, direct sow outdoors after the last frost, thinning to strong seedlings as they establish. Direct sowing is simple but typically flowers later; transplanting offers earlier blooms and better spacing control. In mild climates, autumn sowing is possible for earlier flowering the following year, provided seedlings have time to establish before winter. Wherever you sow, avoid cold, waterlogged ground and aim for steady moisture during germination.

What sun and soil do Tanacetum coccineum need?

Painted daisies thrive in full sun to light shade, producing sturdier stems and better flowering with plenty of light. Choose well-drained, moderately fertile soil; heavy, soggy or richly amended ground can cause weak, lush growth and crown rot. On dense soils, improve drainage with coarse sand or grit and organic matter, ensuring water can pass freely. Avoid low spots that stay wet after rain. A neutral to slightly alkaline profile suits them well, but they are adaptable if drainage is sound. Mulch lightly in spring to conserve moisture while keeping the crown free and dry.

What spacing and height should I expect for painted daisy plants?

Allow generous spacing so clumps develop with good air flow: 30–45 cm between plants is typical, depending on variety and vigor. Expect a medium height with sturdy, upright stems, commonly around 45–70 cm when established, with flowering stems rising above ferny foliage. Wider spacing reduces mildew risk and makes deadheading and cutting easier. In exposed, windy sites, a discreet stake may help keep taller stems upright, especially in very fertile soils where growth can be more exuberant.

Can painted daisies be grown in containers?

Yes—use a pot at least 25–30 cm wide with generous depth, filled with a free-draining mix such as peat-free compost blended with grit or perlite. Position in full sun to light shade and water thoroughly, allowing the top layer to dry slightly between waterings; avoid standing water at the base. Feed lightly in spring with a balanced, slow-release fertiliser, as overly rich feeding can reduce flower quality. Refresh the top few centimetres of compost each year and divide or repot every couple of seasons to maintain vigor and drainage.

What are the watering, deadheading, and general care tips for Tanacetum coccineum?

Provide consistent moisture during active growth and bud formation, then water deeply but infrequently once established, letting the soil dry a little between waterings; avoid waterlogged conditions at all times. Deadhead spent blooms to prolong the display and reduce self-seeding, leaving a few seed heads only if you want volunteers. After the main flush, a light trim can tidy plants and encourage a smaller rebloom. Divide mature clumps every 3–4 years to revive flowering. Stems are excellent for cutting gardens; harvest when blooms are just opening. Sap may irritate sensitive skin—handle with care.

This site provides general cultivation guidance intended for a wide range of conditions. Actual performance varies with microclimate, soil type, drainage, and seasonal patterns such as rainfall and temperature. Product pages include specific instructions tailored to the variety’s characteristics and any handling or sowing details. Practices may need adjustment for local conditions, including exposure, irrigation, and soil fertility.

Sowing and Care for Painted Daisies

Painted daisies offer vibrant, daisy-like blooms atop ferny foliage, and grow reliably from seed with straightforward care. Start indoors or under cover when soil is workable, sowing on the surface as the seed benefits from light exposure; press gently and do not bury. Maintain even moisture with good air circulation; a cool to moderate temperature supports germination, which typically occurs in 10–20 days. Transplant when seedlings have several true leaves, spacing 30–40 cm apart in a sunny position with free-draining, fertile soil. After last frost, harden off before planting; in mild climates autumn sowing may be possible for earlier displays. Established plants prefer consistent moisture without waterlogging and may appreciate light afternoon shade where summers are intense. Deadheading can extend the flowering window and encourage a tidy habit. In colder areas, a light mulch helps protect crowns over winter. With these practices, Tanacetum coccineum forms durable clumps that return each year with vivid colour.