African daisies (Osteospermum spp.) look a lot like common daisies, with petals radiating around a center disk. They are even members of the Asteraceae family, along with Shasta daisies and zinnias.
But, their vivid coloring is not at all like the classic daisy. African daisies come in a variety of stunning shades including white, cream, pink, yellow, purple, and blue.
These flowers are best planted in the spring after the threat of frost has passed, usually at around 25 degrees Fahrenheit. While African daisies can survive a surprise frost, they cannot tolerate repeated frosts.
African daisies have a fairly quick growth rate, blooming about two months after sprouting from seeds. Reliably hardy in zones 10 to 11, these tender perennials are planted as annuals in other climate zones. On average, African daises live 2 to 3 years as perennials.
African daisies (Osteospermum species) are prized for their colorful, daisy-like blooms that can brighten up any garden. As your African daisy grows, it will eventually outgrow its original pot and need repotting to allow for further healthy growth. Repotting seems simple, but proper techniques are important for successful transplanting. In this article, we’ll walk through the entire process of repotting African daisy flowers using proper timing, potting mix, container selection, and step-by-step repotting methods.
When to Repot African Daisies
Timing is key when it comes to repotting African daisies The ideal time is in early spring, just as new growth is beginning Early spring allows the plant time to establish roots before the main growing season. Avoid repotting during winter dormancy or summer heat.
Watch for signs it’s time to repot:
- Rootcrowding – Roots visible through drainage holes or pushing up soil
- Stunted growth and reduced flowering
- Soil drying out very quickly indicating a rootbound plant
While early spring is best, repot anytime you notice these issues to get your plant thriving again.
Choosing the Right Potting Mix
The potting mix is vital for drainage, aeration, moisture retention, and providing nutrients A quality potting soil formulated specifically for African daisies is ideal
Key characteristics to look for
- Fast drainage to prevent soggy soil
- Lightness to allow oxygen to roots
- Moisture retention abilities
- Nutrients like compost or worm castings
A commercial African violet potting mix amended with perlite for extra drainage works very well. Avoid regular garden soil which compacts and retains too much moisture.
Selecting the Right Pot or Container
Choose a new container that is 2-4 inches wider than the current pot to allow ample room for growth. Other tips:
- Ensure containers have drainage holes to prevent soggy soil.
- Terracotta, ceramic, or plastic pots all work well. Match to your preferences and decor.
- Make sure pots are clean to prevent disease transfer.
- Disinfect pots previously used for other plants with a dilute bleach solution.
For outdoors, weather-resistant plastic or terracotta pots work best. Indoors, choose attractive pots to complement your decor.
Step-By-Step Repotting Process
Follow these simple steps for successful African daisy repotting:
1. Water the Plant Well in Advance
Water your daisy thoroughly 1-2 hours before repotting. This makes removal from the old pot easier and minimizes transplant shock.
2. Prepare New Pot with Potting Mix
Fill the new, clean pot about 1/3 full with pre-moistened fresh potting mix. Press down gently to consolidate.
3. Remove Plant from Old Pot
Turn pot on its side and gently slide plant out. Alternatively, turn pot upside down holding the soil and plant to slide out.
4. Gently Loosen Roots
Use your hands or a tool to gently loosen tangled or crowded outer roots to encourage new growth.
5. Place Plant in New Pot
Set the plant in the new pot, maintaining it at the same level as before. Fill in around sides with more potting mix.
6. Water Thoroughly
Once planted, water thoroughly until it drains from the base. This settles the soil around the roots.
7. Provide Care Immediately After Repotting
- Place in bright, indirect light away from direct sun immediately after repotting.
- Allow the soil to partly dry out between waterings. Do not overwater.
- Resume fertilizing 2-3 weeks after transplanting.
- Monitor for transplant shock and revive with immediate TLC.
With proper timing, materials, and techniques your African daisy will quickly bounce back from repotting. It will reward you with vigorous growth and abundant blooms!
Common Questions About Repotting African Daisies
Repotting African daisies is straightforward but some key questions often arise:
How often should African daisies be repotted?
- Repot young plants annually in early spring.
- Mature plants may only need repotting every 2-3 years.
- Repot anytime plant is extremely root bound.
Should you prune African daisy roots when repotting?
- Prune only damaged or circled roots.
- Never cut healthy white roots as this stresses the plant.
- Loosen tangled roots but leave intact.
Can you divide African daisy plants while repotting?
- Yes! Dividing while repotting is an easy way to propagate your daisies.
- Use a sharp, sterile knife to split rooted clumps into smaller sections.
- Repot each division following the same steps.
What size pot for repotting African daisies?
- Choose a pot 2-4 inches wider than the current pot.
- Make sure it has drainage holes.
- Use proper soil mix, not garden soil.
How to revive a stressed African daisy after repotting?
- Give bright indirect light.
- Maintain even soil moisture.
- Mist leaves daily for humidity.
- Resume fertilizing once established.
- Monitor and address any issues immediately.
With the right process, you can confidently repot your African daisy for optimal growth and endless flowers. Pay close attention to timing, materials, technique and aftercare for a smooth transplant. Within weeks, your reinvigorated African daisy will be thriving and blooming happily in its new home.
Planting and Soil
African daisies prefer organically rich soil with sharp drainage and a slightly acidic soil pH. Add compost or other organic matter to the soil at the time of planting to improve drainage and add nutrients.
Plant them at least 12 inches apart to give them room to spread, as some varieties can stretch out to about 12 inches wide. African daisies can be planted in the springtime, after the last frost.
Water
Although somewhat drought-tolerant once established, African daisies still need at least 1 inch of water per week to grow their best. During periods of drought or intense heat, the plants will slow down and go dormant.
Aim to keep the soil evenly moist. But dont overwater, as soggy soil can encourage diseases such as root rot.