Oxeye Daisy Guide: How to Grow and Care for Oxeye Daisies

Oxeye daisies (Leucanthemum vulgare) are part of the Asteraceae family, also known as the Aster family. Other common names for the oxeye daisy are field daisy, dog daisy, white daisy, or marguerite. This herbaceous plant is native to Europe but has spread throughout North America. Oxeye daisies can grow up to two feet in height and feature toothed basal leaves joined by petioles, or leafstalks, at their bases. The flowering stems are smooth and dark green. The flower heads resemble the Shasta daisy (Leucanthemum x superbum) but are smaller, measuring two inches across with a yellow center and white petals atop a green bract.

Oxeye daisies are considered a noxious weed in several states, including Montana and Ohio, where they are prohibited. These invasive plants produce many seeds—an average plant produces 1,300 to 4,000 seeds annually—and can also spread through creeping rhizomes or horizontal root stalks. When not controlled, oxeye daisies can cause soil erosion and degrade natural resources by outcompeting native plant species. Ensure oxeye daisies are not considered an invasive species where you live before planting.

These wildflowers are easy to plant and have a growing season that spans the spring and early summer.

1. 1. Sow oxeye daisy seeds in late winter/early spring. Sow the seeds in average, well-draining soil. They can also grow in more sandy soil.
2. 2. Plant the daisy seeds in a sunny spot. Keep the seeds uncovered so light can help them germinate. Daisies grow best in full sunlight, though they can also survive in partial sun.
3. 3. Keep the seeds moist until they sprout. After that, reduce watering to one to two inches per week. Oxeye daisies are drought-tolerant, so wait until the soil dries out before watering.
4. 4. Prune the plants to encourage growth. To extend the flowering season, deadhead the flowers when they have wilted to encourage more growth.

Oxeye daisies can quickly grow out of control and cause infestations in neighboring yards. Follow these tips to control oxeye daisies:

• Remove the plants before they produce seeds. To control the spread of oxeye daisies, pull the plants out by their roots. Oxeye daisies have a shallow root system and are easy to pull out completely.
• Mow any remaining plants. After mowing, spread mulch on the ground to prevent new seeds from sprouting.
• Use an herbicide. You can also spray your plants with an herbicide, but make sure it’s dedicated to oxeye daisies and safe for lawns.

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