Can I plant shasta daisies now?

Question

Plants will be in full sun.

Answer 1

This is a difficult time to transplant. High temps and hot sun strip moisture faster than recently disturbed roots can re-supply leaves. To have a chance for success, plant when the weather is cloudy, preferably for several days. Put 2-4 inches of mulch around the plant but not up against plant stems. Rig up some shade so the plant doesn’t get direct sunlight. I’ve used open cardboard boxes placed over the plant and leaf bags over a shovel that is placed where it blocks sunlight. I’ve seen pictures of umbrellas used to cast shade on new plants. Keep the plant shaded for up to 5 days. After 3 days, try removing the shade apparatus for part of the day and observe for wilting. Put it back up if the plant is struggling. Keep the soil moist, not soggy. If the plant is tall, cut it back 1/3 to 1/2. You will lose some flowers but fewer leaves helps the plant survive. If you purchased the daisy at a summer sale, it may be rootbound. Here is an article on how to deal with that situation: https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/plant-problems/environmental/root-bound-symptoms.htm