Plant families - Asteraceae

Common daisy

BBC Gardeners' World Magazine

Published: Saturday, 9 March 2019 at 3:00 pm

Tackle daisies growing in your lawn, with the help of advice from our guide.

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDecTime To Actyesyesyesyesyesyesyesyesyesyesyes**yes

Save

The common or lawn daisy is able to grow in a wide range of soils, even in compacted soil that's inhospitable to other plants. They can spread by forming mats of foliage and colonise new areas by producing seed. Daisies may out-compete cultivated plants and cause them to die, but generally they cause few problems.

Easily recognised by pretty, small, white-petalled flowers with a round yellow centre. Found mostly in established flowerbeds, cultivated ground, cracks in paving, garden walls and lawns. Reducing the frequency of lawn mowing during the summer gives daisies the chance to grow and flower, providing nectar for pollinating insects.

Organic method of removal

Dig or grub out daisies from lawns using an old kitchen knife or a spike-like daisy grubber. Alternatively, slash though the mats of foliage with a knife at weekly intervals to weaken and loosen the plants. Collect mowings from the lawn, as this can help spread daisies. Pull or dig out daisies in borders by hand.

The perfect gift for gardeners

Gift 12 months of Gardeners’ World magazine, and Niwaki Sentei Secateurs, to a loved one. Enjoy year-round expert tips for a thriving garden.

Gift a subscription today

Great gardening savings - straight to your inbox

Sign up to the BBC Gardeners’ World offers newsletter for exclusive deals, seasonal savings, and early access to special promotions.