How to Grow Shasta Daisy Alaska
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Shasta Daisy Alaska
Chrysanthemum × superbum 'Alaska'
flowerShasta Daisy 'Alaska' is a classic perennial flowering plant featuring large, pure white daisy-like blooms with bright yellow centers that bloom prolifically throughout summer. This cultivar is known for its tall, robust growth habit and excellent performance as a cut flower. It's a reliable garden staple that brightens borders and provides long-lasting seasonal color.
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Example Shasta Daisy Alaska timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Shasta Daisy Alaska
Around Apr 17Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.
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Tend & protect
Late spring–summerWatering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.
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First Shasta Daisy Alaska blooms
Around Jun 16≈ 60 days after planting
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Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in zones 3-9, with best performance in zones 4-8
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Seedling
2-3 weeksTiny seedlings with two cotyledons and first true leaves appearing; delicate appearance requiring protection
Provide bright light (not full sun initially), keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged, maintain temperature around 65-70°F
Vegetative
4-6 weeksYoung plants developing multiple sets of narrow, lance-shaped green leaves; plant is bushy and establishing root system
Gradually harden off transplants before planting outdoors, pinch back growing tips to encourage bushiness, water at soil level only
Pre-flowering
3-4 weeksPlant reaches mature height (24-36 inches), develops sturdy stems, first flower buds begin to form at stem tips
Apply balanced fertilizer monthly, stake tall varieties for support, mulch around base to retain moisture and regulate soil temperature
Flowering
6-10 weeks (June-August typically)Large white daisy blooms with yellow centers open successively; multiple flowers per plant blooming for extended period
Deadhead spent flowers to encourage continuous blooming, water consistently during hot weather, fertilize with low-nitrogen formula to support blooms
Post-flowering/Dormancy
Variable; overwinters as dormant root systemBlooming declines as temperatures cool, foliage begins to brown and die back; plant enters dormancy
Reduce watering, cut back dead foliage after first frost, apply winter mulch in colder zones, divide crowns every 3 years to rejuvenate
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Increase humidity and water spray on foliage, use insecticidal soap, prune affected leaves, encourage natural predators
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Strong water spray to dislodge, insecticidal soap, neem oil, reflective mulches, beneficial insects like ladybugs
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Improve air circulation by spacing plants properly, avoid wetting foliage, apply sulfur or fungicide spray, remove affected leaves
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Remove infested leaves, apply spinosad, encourage parasitic wasps, avoid overfertilizing with nitrogen
Uses
Edible Flowers
CulinaryShasta Daisy petals are edible and can be used as garnish for salads, desserts, and beverages. They have a slightly mild, slightly bitter flavor and add visual appeal to culinary presentations. [source]
Cut Flower Arrangements
HouseholdShasta Daisies are outstanding cut flowers with excellent vase life lasting up to 2 weeks. They're ideal for fresh bouquets, floral arrangements, and wedding centerpieces. [source]
Traditional Herbal Uses
MedicinalShasta Daisy has a long history in folk medicine traditionally used to support respiratory health and promote relaxation. The flowers have been used in herbal teas and poultices. [source]
Pollinator Support
WildlifeThe bright, open flowers attract numerous pollinators including bees, butterflies, and hoverflies, making it an excellent choice for wildlife gardens and supporting beneficial insect populations. [source]
Dried Flower Craft
CraftShasta Daisies dry beautifully and can be used in dried floral arrangements, pressed flower crafts, wreaths, and potpourri. They retain their color reasonably well when dried. [source]
This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.
Harvest Tips
Cut flowers when blooms are fully open but centers still tightly yellow for best vase life (typically 1-2 weeks). Harvest in early morning when stems are hydrated. Cut stems at a 45-degree angle and place immediately in clean water. Remove lower leaves to prevent bacterial growth. Deadhead spent flowers regularly throughout the season to promote continuous blooming and extend flowering period by 2-4 weeks.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 The 'Alaska' cultivar was selected specifically for its large, pure white flowers and vigorous growth, earning its place as one of the most popular Shasta Daisy varieties in American gardens.
- 🌱 Shasta Daisies were created in the late 1800s by plant breeder Luther Burbank by crossing the ox-eye daisy with Japanese daisy species, named after Mount Shasta in California.
- 🌱 A single Shasta Daisy plant can produce dozens of blooms over a 6-10 week period, and deadheading flowers can extend the blooming season by encouraging the plant to produce more flowers in an attempt to set seed.
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
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