Shasta Daisy (Leucanthemum x superbum 'Becky')

Leucanthemum x superbum 'Becky', commonly known as Shasta Daisy 'Becky', is a popular cultivar of the Shasta Daisy. Here's what you need to know about it:

Characteristics:

Flowers: 'Becky' produces large, classic daisy flowers with white petals and yellow centers. The flowers are typically borne on sturdy stems, making them excellent for cutting and arranging in bouquets.

Foliage: The foliage of 'Becky' is dark green and lance-shaped. It forms a clump of basal leaves that provide a lush backdrop for the flowers.

Size: This cultivar typically grows to a height of 2 to 3 feet (60 to 90 cm) tall and spreads about 1 to 2 feet (30 to 60 cm) wide. It forms a dense, rounded mound of foliage.

Blooming Season: 'Becky' blooms profusely in late spring to early summer, with sporadic reblooming possible throughout the growing season if deadheaded regularly.

Cultural Requirements:

Sunlight: Plant 'Becky' in a location that receives full sun. It requires at least 6 hours of sunlight per day to bloom abundantly.

Soil: Shasta Daisies prefer well-draining soil with good fertility. They can tolerate a range of soil types, but they perform best in loamy soil with plenty of organic matter.

Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged, especially during periods of hot, dry weather. Water deeply and allow the soil to dry slightly between waterings.

Deadheading: To encourage continuous blooming, deadhead spent flowers regularly throughout the blooming season. This helps to prevent the plant from diverting energy into seed production.

Dividing: Divide clumps of 'Becky' every 2 to 3 years in early spring or late summer to maintain vigor and prevent overcrowding.

Mulching: Apply a layer of organic mulch around the base of the plant to conserve soil moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature. Keep the mulch a few inches away from the stems to prevent rotting.

Fertilizing: Feed 'Becky' with a balanced fertilizer in early spring, just before new growth begins. Follow the manufacturer's recommendations for application rates.

Shasta Daisy 'Becky' is a reliable and easy-to-grow perennial that adds charm and brightness to garden borders, cottage gardens, and mixed perennial beds. With its classic daisy flowers and long bloom time, it's a favorite among gardeners looking to add a touch of traditional beauty to their landscapes.