How to Grow Shasta Daisy 'Alaska' and 'Becky'
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Shasta Daisy 'Alaska' and 'Becky'
Chrysanthemum × superbum (syn. Leucanthemum × superbum)
flowerShasta daisies are classic perennial flowers featuring large white petals surrounding bright yellow centers, typically growing 2-3 feet tall. 'Alaska' and 'Becky' are premium cultivars known for larger blooms, longer vase life, and superior vigor compared to standard varieties. These cheerful flowers bloom throughout summer and are excellent for cut arrangements, borders, and cottage gardens.
When should you plant Shasta Daisy 'Alaska' and 'Becky' in your zone?
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Example Shasta Daisy 'Alaska' and 'Becky' timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Shasta Daisy 'Alaska' and 'Becky'
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' and 'Becky' blooms
Mid-to-late summerBefore the first fall frost (≈ Nov 8)
Sample dates for Pittsburgh, PA. Sign up to get exact Shasta Daisy 'Alaska' and 'Becky' dates for your own zip code.
Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in zones 4-8, with good performance in zones 3-9
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Get my Shasta Daisy 'Alaska' and 'Becky' timeline →Growth Stages
Seedling/Transplant
4-6 weeksYoung plants develop true leaves and establish root systems. Growth is slow initially.
Keep soil consistently moist but not soggy. Provide bright light indoors or dappled outdoor shade. Harden off transplants gradually before planting.
Vegetative Establishment
6-8 weeksPlant develops multiple stems and a fuller form. Foliage is lush and green; no flower buds yet.
Pinch back growing tips in early summer to encourage bushier growth. Ensure full sun exposure. Water regularly and apply mulch around base.
Budding & Early Bloom
2-3 weeksFlower buds appear at stem tips. First flowers begin to open, typically in early to mid-summer.
Deadhead spent blooms to encourage continuous flowering. Support tall stems with stakes if needed. Feed with balanced or low-nitrogen fertilizer.
Peak Flowering
6-8 weeksMultiple flowers bloom simultaneously, creating a showy display. Blooms are large and pristine on 'Alaska' and 'Becky' cultivars.
Deadhead regularly to extend blooming period into fall. Water during dry spells. Cut stems for arrangements, which stimulates more blooms.
Post-Bloom & Dormancy
8-12 weeks through winterFlowering slows in late summer/fall. Plant begins to decline as temperatures cool. Dies back to ground in fall/early winter.
Stop deadheading in late summer to allow seeds to form (attracts birds). Cut back dead foliage in fall or early spring. Divide crowns every 3-4 years.
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Spray with strong water stream; use insecticidal soap or neem oil if infestation is severe. Encourage natural predators like ladybugs.
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Increase humidity and water at soil level. Use miticide if severe. Avoid over-fertilizing with nitrogen.
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Remove affected leaves; improve air circulation. Water only at soil level to prevent spreading. No chemical control available; prevention is key.
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Hand-pick at dusk/dawn. Apply copper tape barriers or diatomaceous earth around plants. Use slug bait cautiously if needed.
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Ensure good air circulation and avoid wetting foliage. Spray with sulfur or neem oil at first sign. Remove heavily affected leaves.
Uses
Edible flowers for garnish
CulinaryShasta daisy petals are edible and can garnish salads, desserts, and beverages, adding a mild, slightly tangy flavor and cheerful visual appeal. [source]
Traditional herbal tea and wellness
MedicinalDaisy flowers have been used traditionally to make soothing herbal teas believed to have mild anti-inflammatory and calming properties, supporting digestive and respiratory health. [source]
Cut flower arrangements
Household'Alaska' and 'Becky' cultivars are prized by florists for their long vase life, substantial bloom size, and reliability in fresh arrangements, wedding bouquets, and cottage-style displays. [source]
Pollinator and beneficial insect support
WildlifeShasta daisies attract butterflies, bees, and other pollinators throughout the blooming season, providing essential nectar and pollen sources for beneficial insects. [source]
Dried flowers for crafts
CraftShasta daisy flowers dry beautifully and retain their appearance well, making them ideal for pressed flower arrangements, herbals, and dried floral crafts. [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 in early morning when petals are fully open and stems are hydrated. Use sharp, clean scissors or floral shears. Cut stems at 45-degree angles and immediately place in cool water with floral preservative. Change water every 2-3 days. Vase life is 10-14 days. For garden display, deadhead spent blooms regularly to extend flowering from June through September.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 'Becky' won the prestigious Fleuroselect Gold Medal in 2006 and is known for extraordinary vigor and disease resistance, often outperforming 'Alaska' in humid climates.
- 🌱 Shasta daisies are relatively modern hybrids, developed in the late 1800s by Luther Burbank in California by crossing Chrysanthemum maximum with Chrysanthemum nipponicum.
- 🌱 The name 'Shasta' comes from Mount Shasta in California, where Burbank conducted much of his plant breeding work.
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
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