Chrysanthemum carinatum

1. Sow Indoors or Outdoors:

   - Indoors: Start seeds indoors 6–8 weeks before the last frost. Sow seeds 1/8 inch deep in seed trays or pots with a light, well-draining seed-starting mix. Keep the soil moist and maintain a temperature of 65–70°F (18–21°C). Germination typically takes 10–14 days.

   - Outdoors: Directly sow seeds outdoors after the last frost when the soil has warmed. Space seeds about 1–2 inches apart, and thin seedlings to about 12–18 inches apart once they have a few leaves.

2. Sunlight and Care: Chrysanthemum carinatum prefers full sun and well-drained soil. Water regularly, especially during dry spells, but avoid waterlogging. Mulching around the plants helps retain moisture and control weeds.

3. Blooming and Harvesting: This annual variety produces vibrant, daisy-like flowers in a range of colors. It typically blooms 60–90 days after sowing. Once the flowers start blooming, you can cut them for use in bouquets or leave them to attract pollinators in your garden.

Chrysanthemum carinatum, also known as the Painted Daisy, is known for its striking, colorful flowers that add brightness to flower beds or containers. It’s easy to grow and an excellent choice for summer color.