Daisies are one of the most beloved and recognizable flowers in gardens around the world. With their cheerful blooms and hardy nature, they brighten up outdoor spaces and attract pollinators. But when exactly do daisies bloom? Are they spring flowers, summer flowers, or both?
This article offers a clear and simple answer to that question. We’ll also explore different types of daisies, their blooming cycles, how to care for them, and tips for keeping your garden full of daisies for as long as possible.
Are Daisies Spring Or Summer Flowers?
Many daisies bloom in both spring and summer. Depending on the species and where you live, some types of daisies will start flowering in early spring and continue through summer and even into fall. Others may start blooming a little later, thriving in the heat of summer.
Daisies are not tied to just one season. Instead, they are known for their extended blooming periods, especially when given the right care and growing conditions.
Why People Often Think of Daisies as Summer Flowers
Many people associate daisies with summer because they often reach peak bloom in early to mid-summer, when gardens are in full swing. Their bold colors and strong stems hold up well under warm sunshine, and they are often seen in summer floral arrangements and wildflower meadows.
But that doesn’t mean they are absent in spring. Some species bloom early, and others continue well into the cooler months, making daisies one of the most versatile and long-lasting flowers in the garden.
Daisy Bloom Time by Type
To better understand when daisies bloom, let’s look at some of the most common daisy types and their flowering seasons.
Shasta Daisy (Leucanthemum × superbum)
- Bloom Season: Late spring to early fall
- Sun Needs: Full sun
- Hardiness Zones: 5–9
Shasta daisies are perhaps the most classic daisy variety. With their bright white petals and yellow centers, they typically begin blooming in late spring and can continue producing flowers throughout the summer months. If you deadhead them (remove faded flowers), they’ll bloom even longer.
Oxeye Daisy (Leucanthemum vulgare)
- Bloom Season: Late spring to mid-summer
- Sun Needs: Full sun to partial shade
- Hardiness Zones: 3–8
The oxeye daisy is a wildflower that often appears in meadows and along roadsides. Its blooming season starts in late spring and lasts through early summer. This daisy has a more natural, loose appearance and can spread quickly in the garden if not controlled.
African Daisy (Osteospermum)
- Bloom Season: Spring and early summer (in cooler climates), fall and winter (in hot climates)
- Sun Needs: Full sun
- Hardiness Zones: 9–11
African daisies come in vibrant colors like purple, orange, and pink. In cooler climates, they bloom best in spring and early summer. In very warm regions, they actually prefer fall and winter blooms because summer heat can slow them down.
Gerbera Daisy (Gerbera jamesonii)
- Bloom Season: Late spring to fall (mostly summer)
- Sun Needs: Full sun to partial shade
- Hardiness Zones: 8–11
Gerbera daisies are known for their large, colorful blooms. They are often treated as annuals in cooler climates but bloom from late spring through summer and even into fall if protected from extreme heat.
English Daisy (Bellis perennis)
- Bloom Season: Early spring to early summer
- Sun Needs: Full sun to partial shade
- Hardiness Zones: 4–8
English daisies are true spring bloomers. They are often among the first flowers to open after winter, especially in cooler climates. Their small, button-like blooms make them perfect for spring borders and containers.
Daisy Blooming Seasons by Region
The climate in your region also plays a big role in when daisies bloom. Here’s a general guide:
Northern Climates (Zones 3–6)
- Most daisies bloom from late spring to late summer.
- Spring varieties may start flowering in May, while others bloom in June and July.
- A hard winter dormancy period means spring is crucial for early-blooming daisies.
Mild Climates (Zones 7–9)
- Daisies can bloom from early spring through fall.
- Some varieties, like African daisies, may bloom almost year-round.
- Deadheading and mulching help extend the bloom time.
Warm Climates (Zones 10–11)
- Daisies may bloom in late fall, winter, and early spring, depending on the type.
- Heat-loving varieties (like Gerberas) may flower through summer, but some daisies go dormant in extreme heat.
How to Get the Longest Bloom From Daisies
To enjoy daisies for as long as possible, gardeners can take some simple steps.
Choose the Right Varieties
Mix early-blooming daisies like English daisies with summer bloomers like Shasta daisies. This allows you to cover the entire growing season from spring through fall.
Plant in Full Sun
Most daisies prefer at least 6 hours of sunlight per day. Sunlight helps them bloom stronger and longer. Some, like English daisies, can tolerate light shade.
Deadhead Regularly
Removing old flowers encourages the plant to produce new blooms. This is especially helpful for varieties like Shasta and Gerbera daisies.
Water Consistently
Keep the soil moist but not soggy. Daisies dislike being too dry or too wet. A deep watering once or twice a week is usually enough, depending on your soil and weather.
Feed Monthly
A balanced fertilizer can boost bloom production. Apply it once a month during the growing season for best results.
Cut Back After Blooming
When the first round of flowering ends, cut back the stems by one-third to encourage a second round of blooms.
Daisies in the Garden: Seasonal Planting Tips
Now that we understand when daisies bloom, let’s look at how to plan your garden to enjoy them from early spring to late fall.
Spring Planting
- Plant English daisies and African daisies early.
- Start seeds indoors 6–8 weeks before the last frost.
- Add mulch around young plants to retain moisture and prevent weeds.
Summer Care
- Water deeply once or twice a week.
- Deadhead and fertilize monthly.
- Protect delicate varieties from extreme heat using partial shade or cloth.
Fall Maintenance
- Cut back spent plants and collect seeds for next year.
- In colder zones, divide clumps of Shasta daisies to keep them healthy.
- Mulch the base of perennials to protect them through winter.
Common Questions About Daisy Blooming
Do Daisies Bloom More Than Once a Year?
Yes! Many daisies, especially if properly cared for, can bloom multiple times in one season. Shasta daisies and Gerberas can bloom from spring to fall if deadheaded and fertilized regularly.
Why Are My Daisies Not Blooming?
Common reasons include:
- Not enough sunlight
- Poor soil nutrition
- Overwatering or underwatering
- Lack of deadheading
- Improve these conditions, and your daisies will likely reward you with blooms.
Are Daisies Annuals or Perennials?
It depends on the type:
Perennials: Shasta daisy, oxeye daisy, English daisy (in some zones)
Annuals or tender perennials: Gerbera daisy (in cold climates), African daisy
Always check your USDA hardiness zone to know whether a daisy will come back next year.
Spring or Summer? Why Not Both?
Daisies are not just spring or summer flowers — they can be both. With the right mix of varieties and good garden care, you can enjoy these cheerful blooms from early spring all the way to the first frost.
They’re easy to grow, beautiful in borders and pots, and friendly to pollinators like bees and butterflies. Whether you’re planning a fresh spring display or a bold summer garden, daisies are a timeless choice.
