Bellis, commonly known as daisies, are delightful flowering plants that add a touch of charm to any garden. However, unlike many other perennial plants that return year after year, Bellis only flower in their second year. This means that if you want to enjoy their beautiful blooms every year, you will need to resow them annually.
The reason behind this is that Bellis require a process called flower induction, which is triggered by short, cool days. These environmental conditions signal to the plant that it is time to produce flowers. If Bellis plants are overprotected and kept in warm conditions throughout the winter, they may not receive the necessary cues to induce flowering.
To ensure the success of your Bellis plants, it is important to expose them to natural winter conditions. This means allowing them to experience cool temperatures and even a light frost. However, it is essential to protect them from harsh freezing temperatures, as this can damage or kill the plants. Providing a frost-free environment is the key to keeping your Bellis plants healthy and ready for their second year of flowering.
When it comes to sowing Bellis seeds, it is best to do so in late summer or early autumn. This timing allows the plants to establish themselves before winter sets in. Start by preparing a well-drained soil bed and scatter the seeds evenly over the surface. Lightly press the seeds into the soil, ensuring good seed-to-soil contact. It is important not to bury the seeds too deeply, as they require light to germinate.
Once the seeds are sown, you can cover the bed with a thin layer of compost or fine soil to help retain moisture and protect the seeds from birds. Water the bed gently to keep the soil moist but not saturated. With proper care and favorable conditions, the seeds should germinate within a couple of weeks.
As the seedlings grow, it is crucial to thin them out to provide enough space for each plant to develop fully. Aim for a spacing of around 15-20 centimeters between plants. This will allow them to establish strong root systems and promote healthy growth.
Throughout the winter, it is important to monitor the weather conditions and provide protection if necessary. If a particularly severe frost is expected, you can cover the plants with a frost cloth or mulch to insulate them. However, be sure to remove the covering once the danger of frost has passed to prevent the plants from overheating or becoming too damp.
In the following spring, you can look forward to the delightful sight of Bellis flowers in full bloom. Their vibrant colors and charming petals will bring joy to your garden and attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies. Enjoy their beauty throughout the season, but remember that they are annuals and will not return the following year.
To summarize the process of growing Bellis and ensuring their annual flowering:
1. Sow the seeds in late summer or early autumn.
2. Prepare a well-drained soil bed and scatter the seeds evenly on the surface.
3. Lightly press the seeds into the soil and cover with a thin layer of compost or fine soil.
4. Water gently to keep the soil moist but not saturated.
5. Thin out the seedlings to provide adequate spacing.
6. Monitor winter conditions and provide protection from severe frost if necessary.
7. Enjoy the beautiful blooms in spring, knowing that the plants will need to be resown the following year.
By following these steps and providing the right conditions, you can ensure a yearly display of Bellis flowers in your garden. Though they may not return on their own, the effort of resowing will be well worth it for the beauty and joy they bring.
