| Why do my Shasta daisies grow beautifully for a while then a whole stalk turns brown & dry and dies, then another and then another until the whole plant looks brown and crispy and then a new stalk will start growing? |
| Shasta daisies increase in size by sending roots out from the center of the plant. If you have a plant for several years, you'll notice the center is bare, but new growth continues around the perimeter of the plant. Shasta daisies should be divided every 3-4 years to keep the plants looking attractive. Once a flower dies, the stem has a tendency to die back, as well. If the plant looks otherwise healthy, you may be witnessing the natural progression of things. On the other hand, if the dieback happens before the bud opens, or if the stem and flower suddenly wilt and die, you may be dealing with a fungal disease. If so, you can treat with a copper-based fungicide, or dig the plant, remove and destroy the affected roots and stems, and replant the healthy roots in a new location in the garden. |
