Chrysanthemum leucanthemum 'May Queen'
Chrysanthemum leucanthemum 'May Queen'
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1900 Seeds
Seeding Chrysanthemum leucanthemum 'May Queen' (now more correctly referred to as Leucanthemum vulgare 'May Queen') is an excellent way to grow early-blooming oxeye daisies with classic white petals and yellow centers. ‘May Queen’ is prized for its early flowering habit, often blooming in late spring, and is ideal for cottage gardens, wildflower meadows, naturalized areas, and pollinator-friendly borders.
🌼 Leucanthemum vulgare 'May Queen' – Seeding Guide
✅ Quick Overview
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Type | Hardy perennial (zones 3–9) |
| Height | 60–90 cm (24–36 in) |
| Bloom Time | Late spring to early summer |
| Light | Full sun to partial shade |
| Soil | Well-drained, average to poor soil |
| Pollinators | Attracts bees, butterflies, hoverflies |
🌱 Step-by-Step Seeding Instructions
1. When to Sow
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Indoors: 8–10 weeks before your last frost date
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Outdoors (direct sow):
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Spring: After the last frost
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Autumn: For natural cold stratification and spring germination
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2. Seed Preparation
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Light aids germination – do not cover seeds deeply
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No pre-soaking or stratification required, but cold-stratifying in the fridge for 2–4 weeks can help improve germination, especially if sowing indoors early
3. Indoor Sowing (Recommended for Stronger Starts)
| Step | Instructions |
|---|---|
| Containers | Seed trays or shallow pots with drainage |
| Soil | Light, well-draining seed-starting mix |
| Sowing Depth | Surface sow or cover lightly with a fine dusting of soil or vermiculite |
| Temperature | 15–20°C (60–68°F) |
| Germination Time | 10–21 days |
| Light | Bright light or grow lights (12–14 hrs/day) |
4. After Germination
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Transplant seedlings when they have 2–3 sets of true leaves
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Harden off for 7–10 days before planting outside
5. Transplanting Outdoors
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Spacing: 30–45 cm (12–18 in) apart
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Site: Full sun preferred, tolerates partial shade
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Soil: Well-drained, not too rich
☀️ Growing Conditions
| Factor | Best Practice |
|---|---|
| Sunlight | Full sun (6+ hrs/day) |
| Soil | Well-drained, average to sandy |
| Water | Moderate; drought-tolerant once established |
| Fertilizer | Not necessary; rich soil can reduce flowering |
✂️ Care Tips
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Deadhead to prolong bloom period
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Divide clumps every 2–3 years to prevent overcrowding and keep plants vigorous
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May self-seed freely in naturalized areas
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Suitable for wildlife gardens and low-maintenance borders
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