The Montauk Daisy Plant

The Montauk Daisy, a delightful perennial was formerly known by its botanical name Chrysanthemum Nipponicum.  Originating on the coast of Japan, this plant eventually found itself here on the East Coast, on Long Island. Acquiring its present-day name, after the Montauk Lighthouse, which sits on a beautiful area of the Hamptons.  The Montauk Daisy, known for it’s hardy nature and low-maintenance growth cycle, is shrubby and dense with green, waxy leaves. It’s even been reported that this daisy has survived many drought instances.

Now, with a little horticultural history under your belt, let’s get started!  Plant in full sunlight or partial shade, in normal well-drained soil.  Though this plant can go with little fluid, to keep these stems smiling, provide them with regular water, but don’t overdo it.

Conservation tip: purchase a rain barrel to collect water during storms and use the accumulation to water your garden.  The cost of a rain barrel ($99), typically pays for itself in just one season, but will last for many, many seasons to come.

The Montauk Daisy full grown, will spread to about three feet in width, bearing a stem two to three feet in height, lending to a perfect floral stature for cutting and displaying. Healthy plant hints: prune about 1/3 of the length off the stems in the springtime, this will keep your Daisies from overgrowing and toppling over in the summertime.

In the fall, make sure to cut your Montauk Daisy plant back and close to the ground. Be sure to cover it with soil and mulch to protect it over the winter.

The Montauk Daisy is an appealing addition to the garden!  Surprisingly, deer and rabbits tend to leave these flowers alone, while the plant actually attracts butterflies!

This week, Montauk Daises are on sale for $7.99 (regularly $9.99), at Whole Foods Market, Harbor East.  We hope you enjoy this gardener-friendly flower!

Local Farm Information:

White’s Nursery Chesapeake, Virginia:

White’s Nursery was founded in the summer of 1956 by Norman White and his wife Hetty, on the same tract of land Mr. White was born & raised on. He constructed the first greenhouse of glass and began growing chrysanthemums while working full time as a naval architect at the Naval shipyard. With the help of his family, caring employees, and high quality standards, the business has grown and diversified. This year they are celebrating the 55^th anniversary of the Nursery and Greenhouses.

White’s Nursery never fails to produce quality flowering plants year-round that delight us and our customers. They specialize in flowering potted plants, hanging baskets, bedding plants, chrysanthemums and holiday crops such as Easter Lilies and Poinsettias.

It’s an easy choice to offer items from this local nursery!

From Whole Foods Market, have a wonderful week, filled with flowers and fun!