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.
With their vibrant colors and hardy nature, African daisies make a fabulous addition to any garden. However, like all plants, they need adequate water to thrive. Learning how to properly assess your African daisy’s moisture needs is crucial for keeping it happy and healthy.
In this article, we’ll explore the signs that indicate your African daisy is thirsty and ready for watering. We’ll also discuss factors that impact watering frequency and provide tips on establishing an effective watering schedule.
Signs Your African Daisy Needs Water
The most accurate way to determine if your African daisy needs water is to check the soil moisture. But there are also visual signs displayed by the plant itself that can clue you in.
Here are the top signs that your African daisy flower is thirsty and could use a good drink:
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Drooping or wilting leaves – If the leaves and stems start looking limp or droopy, dehydration is likely the culprit. Wilting is one of the clearest indicators that your plant urgently needs water.
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Leaves feeling soft or thinner – Dehydrated leaves often start to feel thinner or softer than normal Pinch or feel the leaves to check their texture.
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Leaf discoloration – Lack of water causes African daisy leaves to turn yellow or brown around the edges or develop dry, scorched patches
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Flowers drying up – Insufficient water leads to African daisy flowers shriveling up and dying prematurely.
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Lack of new blooms – An extremely thirsty African daisy will stop producing new flower buds until its water needs are met.
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Soil pulling away from pot edges – Shrinking, cracked soil that no longer touches the sides of the container is a red flag.
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Soil seems dry when scratched – Use your finger to lightly scratch the surface. Parched soil will be dry and flaky 1-2 inches below the surface.
Checking Soil Moisture
To definitively determine whether your African daisy needs water, check the moisture level of the soil it’s planted in. Here’s how:
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Use your finger to poke 1-2 inches into the soil, near the base of the plant.
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If the soil feels dry and crumbly, it’s time to water. Moist soil will feel cool and somewhat mucky.
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You can also use a moisture meter for a precise reading of the soil’s water content.
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Lift the pot to check its weight – extremely light means it’s dried out.
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Observe how quickly water penetrates after adding some to the soil surface. Fast drainage indicates it’s parched.
Checking the soil trumps visible appearances every time when assessing your plant’s thirst. Never water purely based on a plant “looking” dry. Verify with the soil first.
Factors Impacting Water Needs
To keep your African daisy properly hydrated, you’ll need to pay attention to key factors that influence its water requirements:
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Container vs. in-ground – Potted plants need more frequent watering than in-ground plantings. Their soil dries out faster.
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Weather – Hot, dry, or windy conditions cause faster moisture evaporation from soil, so watering needs increase.
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Sun exposure – The more sun the plant gets, the quicker its water reserves deplete. Full sun equals more watering.
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Soil type – Sandy soils require more frequent watering than moisture-retentive loamy or clay soils.
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Plant size & stage – Larger, more mature African daisies with abundant foliage and flowers need more water than smaller young plants.
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Season – Peak summer months necessitate more watering than the cooler spring and fall periods.
Establishing a Watering Schedule
Based on your African daisy’s needs and growing conditions, you can develop a customized watering schedule. Here are some tips:
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Water container plants more often than in-ground – usually at least every 2-3 days in warm weather.
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Increase frequency during hot, dry spells and reduce when it’s cool and damp.
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For in-ground daisies, aim to water 1-2 times per week during peak growing season.
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Water first thing in the morning to minimize evaporation loss.
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Apply water until it drains from the bottom of containers or saturates soil 4-6 inches deep in gardens.
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Rely more on soil moisture than a fixed schedule, checking soil before watering.
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Adjust as needed based on weather fluctuations and the plant’s requirements.
Providing adequate water on a consistent basis tailored to your unique environment will keep your African daisy thriving happily in any garden!
Watering Best Practices
Follow these tips for successful, effective watering of your African daisies:
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Always check soil moisture before watering – don’t follow a fixed schedule.
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Water slowly and deeply – avoid frequent shallow sprinklings.
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Ensure excellent drainage – African daisies hate soggy soil.
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Use soaker hoses or drip irrigation for plants in the ground.
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Water at soil level and avoid wetting the foliage.
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Optimal time is early morning before hot sun kicks in.
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Adjust watering method and frequency based on weather and plant factors.
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Monitor plants and soil frequently and adapt as conditions change.
Warning Signs of Underwatering
Catching underwatering early and addressing it quickly is crucial. Here are some clear indicators that your African daisy urgently needs more frequent, thorough watering:
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Severe wilting of leaves, even when it’s cool out
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Leaves feeling thin, brittle, or crunchy
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Brown crispy leaf edges combined with yellowing
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Flowers drying up and dropping
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Lack of new buds
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Soil extremely dry 1-2 inches down
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Leaves dropping prematurely
Don’t let it get to this point if possible! At the first sign of thirst, give your African daisy a good long drink.
When to Call In a Professional
Occasionally, no matter how attentive your care, African daisies decline rapidly due to underwatering. If you notice any of the following, contact a professional for help:
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Plant collapse with extensive leaf and stem drop
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Welting that doesn’t improve after thorough watering
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Soft, mushy stems indicating root or stem rot
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White mold or fungus on leaves, stems or soil
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Evidence of pests like spider mites
At advanced stages of decline, there could be other factors at play besides just lack of water. A professional can diagnose any pests or diseases and help you get your African daisy back on track.
Caring properly for African daisies isn’t difficult, but it does require vigilance and attention to detail. Learn your plant’s needs and stick to a consistent watering routine tailored to its requirements. With the right amount of water at just the right times, you’ll enjoy this colorful bloomer for years to come!
Light
African daisies bloom best in full sun. They can tolerate partial shade, but this will likely cause them to produce fewer flowers. The blooms generally open in response to light and close at night and during overcast weather. However, some newer cultivars, including 4D Pink, 4D Silver, and 4D Berry, remain open at night.
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.
How to Care For African Daisies. The Complete Growing Guide.
FAQ
How often do African daisies need water?
How do you know if your daisies are overwatered?
Do African daisies like full sun or shade?
Should daisies be watered daily?