Star of Veldt, also known as Dimorphotheca, is a striking plant. These daisy-like flowers are fantastic for bringing some lovely colour to your garden from late spring until the first frost.
They’re not too challenging to grow either, which is always a plus! So use this detailed guide to help grow these beautiful plants successfully.
Understanding Star of Veldt
What is Star of Veldt?
Dimorphotheca, often called Star of Veldt, Cape Marigold or African Daisy, belongs to the Asteraceae family and is native to Southern Africa. They’re popular as they have beautiful, bright, colorful blooms that range from yellow and orange to pink and white.
Key Features
Growth Habit: These plants grow 8-18 inches tall which makes them ideal for borders and ground cover.
Flowers: They produce vibrant, daisy-like flowers with a dark center, blooming from late spring to autumn.
Choosing the Right Variety
Dimorphotheca comes in several species and cultivars. Here are a few popular ones:
| Species | Characteristics |
|---|---|
| Dimorphotheca sinuata | Bright orange or yellow flowers. |
| Dimorphotheca ecklonis | White or pink blooms with blue centers. |
| Dimorphotheca pluvialis | White flowers that close during cloudy weather. |
| Dimorphotheca aurantiaca | Large, daisy-like flowers in various colors with dark centers. |
Source: Reddit
Tips for Selecting Varieties
Climate: Choose varieties based on your local climate. Some might perform better in warmer regions for example.
Color Scheme: Select colors that complement your garden’s aesthetic.
Planting Site and Soil Requirements
Ideal Conditions
Sunlight
Dimorphotheca, or Star of Veldt, thrives in full sun. This means they need at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight each day. Full sunlight is crucial for the following reasons:
Flower Production: Adequate sunlight ensures abundant flowering. In shaded areas, flower production diminishes significantly.
Plant Health: Full sun helps keep the plants dry and less susceptible to fungal diseases.
Soil
Well-drained, sandy loam soil is the best choice for Dimorphotheca. Here are detailed soil requirements:
Drainage: Good drainage is essential. Waterlogged soil can lead to root rot, a common issue for these plants. If your garden has heavy clay soil, consider improving drainage by adding sand or organic matter like compost.
Texture: Sandy loam soil provides the perfect balance of drainage and moisture retention. It allows water to drain quickly while retaining enough moisture for the roots.
Soil Amendment: Adding compost or well-rotted manure before planting can improve soil fertility and structure.
pH Level
Dimorphotheca can tolerate a range of soil pH levels but prefers slightly acidic to neutral soil (pH 6.0-7.5). Here’s how you can manage soil pH:
Testing: Use a soil pH testing kit to determine the pH level of your garden soil.
Adjusting pH: If the soil is too acidic, add lime to raise the pH. For alkaline soil, sulfur or peat moss can help lower the pH.
Site Preparation Tips
Improving Drainage: If your soil tends to retain water, create raised beds to enhance drainage. Incorporate organic matter like compost or coarse sand to improve soil structure.
Avoiding Shady Areas Choose a site with full sun exposure. Shaded areas can result in poor flowering and weak plants.
Soil Testing: Regularly test your soil’s pH and nutrient levels. Amend the soil as needed to maintain optimal growing conditions.
Source: Reddit
Sowing Seeds
Timing for Sowing
Dimorphotheca seeds can be sown indoors or directly in the garden. Timing depends on your climate:
Indoor Sowing
Start Indoors Begin seeds 6-8 weeks before the last expected frost date in your area.
Advantages Indoor sowing gives seedlings a head start, especially in cooler climates where the growing season is short.
Outdoor Sowing
Direct Sowing Sow seeds directly in the garden after the danger of frost has passed and the soil has warmed.
Climate Consideration In warm climates, seeds can also be sown in autumn for winter and spring blooming.
Seed Sowing Steps
1. Soil Preparation Loosen the soil to a depth of 6-8 inches. Mix in compost to enhance fertility and drainage.
2. Sowing Depth Sow seeds 1/8 inch deep. Lightly cover them with soil or a thin layer of vermiculite.
3. Watering Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Use a fine mist spray to avoid displacing the seeds.
4. Germination Conditions Maintain a temperature of 65°F (18°C) for optimal germination, which usually occurs in 10-14 days.
Indoor Sowing Tips
Seed Trays or Pots Use seed trays or small pots with drainage holes. Fill with a quality seed-starting mix.
Light and Warmth Place the trays in a warm, bright location. A sunny windowsill or a grow light can provide adequate light and warmth.
Moisture Management Cover the trays with plastic wrap or a clear lid to retain humidity until the seeds germinate.
Source: Reddit
Transplanting Seedlings
Once your seedlings have developed two sets of true leaves, they are ready for transplanting. Here’s a detailed guide:
Hardening Off
Before transplanting, harden off your seedlings to help them adjust to outdoor conditions:
Gradual Acclimation Start by placing the seedlings outside in a sheltered location for a few hours each day, gradually increasing the time over a week to 10 days.
Temperature Ensure the outdoor temperatures are consistently above 50°F (10°C) during the hardening-off period.
Spacing
Proper spacing is crucial for healthy growth and air circulation:
Recommended Spacing Space seedlings 8-12 inches apart. This provides enough room for each plant to grow without overcrowding.
Air Circulation Good spacing helps reduce the risk of fungal diseases by improving air circulation around the plants.
Transplanting Process
1. Prepare the Planting Area Loosen the soil in the planting area to a depth of 6-8 inches. Incorporate compost to enhance soil fertility.
2. Digging Holes Dig holes slightly larger than the root ball of each seedling. Space the holes 8-12 inches apart.
3. Transplanting Gently remove the seedlings from their pots, being careful not to damage the roots. Place each seedling in a hole, fill in with soil, and press down gently to eliminate air pockets.
4. Watering Water thoroughly after transplanting to settle the soil around the roots. Maintain consistent moisture, especially during the first few weeks after transplanting.
Post-Transplant Care
Mulching Apply a thin layer of mulch around the plants to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Regular Monitoring Keep an eye on the newly transplanted seedlings for signs of stress or pest issues. Provide additional water if the weather is particularly dry.
Caring for Star of Veldt
Watering
Establishment Phase: Water regularly until the plants are established.
Drought Tolerance: Once established Star of Veldt is quite drought-tolerant. Water sparingly allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.
Watering Tips
- Water in the morning to allow foliage to dry before evening, reducing the risk of disease.
- Avoid overhead watering to prevent leaf spot and other fungal issues.
Feeding
Fertilization: Too much fertilizer can lead to lush foliage but fewer flowers. Use a balanced, all-purpose fertilizer sparingly.
Soil Amendment: Incorporate compost into the soil before planting to provide essential nutrients.
Deadheading and Pruning
Deadheading: Regularly remove spent blooms to encourage continuous flowering. This also helps prevent unwanted self-seeding.
Pruning: After flowering cut back the stems to tidy the plant and promote new growth.
Pests and Diseases Management
Dimorphotheca is generally pest-free but can be susceptible to certain issues.
Common Pests
Slugs and Snails: Protect young plants with slug traps, barriers or organic slug pellets.
Aphids: Monitor for aphids and treat with insecticidal soap if necessary.
Diseases
Root Rot: Make sure there is good drainage to prevent waterlogged conditions that can lead to root rot.
Powdery Mildew: Maintain good air circulation and avoid overhead watering to reduce the risk of mildew.
Preventive Measures
- Regularly inspect plants for signs of pests and diseases.
- Maintain proper spacing and avoid overcrowding.
Propagation
Taking Cuttings
1. Selecting Cuttings: Take softwood cuttings from non-flowering shoots in late spring or early summer.
2. Preparing Cuttings: Cut a 3-4 inch section just below a node. Remove the lower leaves.
3. Rooting: Dip the cut end in rooting hormone and plant in a pot filled with moist compost. Cover with a plastic bag to retain humidity.
4. Location: Place in a warm, bright area. Check for roots in a few weeks.
Tips for Success
- Use a well-draining potting mix for cuttings.
- Ensure the cuttings are kept in a humid environment until roots develop.
Common Questions
How Long Does It Take for Star of Veldt to Bloom?
Star of Veldt typically blooms from late spring until the first frost. The exact timing can vary based on local climate and growing conditions.
Can Star of Veldt Be Grown in Containers?
Yes, Star of Veldt can thrive in containers provided they have adequate drainage. Use a well-draining potting mix and ensure the container has drainage holes.
Container Growing Tips
- Choose a large enough container to accommodate the plant’s root system.
- Water regularly but ensure the soil dries out between waterings.
Are Star of Veldt Perennials or Annuals?
In most climates, Star of Veldt is grown as an annual. However, in frost-free regions, it can behave as a short-lived perennial.
Growing as a Perennial
- In warmer climates, cut back the plants after flowering to encourage new growth.
- Provide winter protection if necessary to prevent frost damage.