How to Grow and Care for Margarita Plant

The Margarita plant, known botanically as Argyranthemum frutescens, is also recognized by its common name, the Marguerite daisy. Native to the Canary Islands, this plant is cherished for its abundant, daisy-like flowers that bloom from late spring through fall. The classic appearance features white, pink, or yellow petals surrounding a bright yellow center, though many cultivars with different colors and double blooms exist.

This plant grows into a small, bushy shrub, reaching heights and widths of one to three feet. Its foliage is a deep green with a fine, almost fern-like texture, which provides an attractive backdrop for the flowers. Due to its long-lasting display, the Margarita plant is used in containers, window boxes, and as a filler in garden beds and borders.

Margarita Plant Care

For the best blooming, Margarita plants require a location that receives at least six to eight hours of direct sunlight each day. In regions with intense summer heat, a spot that gets morning sun and some light afternoon shade can be beneficial. Without adequate light, the plant may produce fewer flowers and develop a “leggy” appearance with elongated stems.

These plants thrive in fertile, well-drained soil. Performance improves when the soil is amended with organic matter like compost or aged manure. Good drainage is a specific requirement, as the roots are susceptible to rot if they remain in waterlogged soil. For container gardening, use a high-quality, all-purpose potting mix that allows for excellent drainage.

An established Margarita plant needs about an inch of water per week, but this can vary based on climate. A good practice is to check the top one to two inches of soil; if it feels dry, it is time to water. Plants in containers dry out more quickly and will require more frequent watering, especially during hot weather.

Margarita daisies are tender perennials, suited for USDA hardiness zones 9-11. In colder climates, they are grown as annuals and will not survive a hard frost. The plant performs best in moderate temperatures and can struggle in extreme heat. To support its heavy blooming cycle, apply a balanced liquid fertilizer every two to four weeks during the growing season.

Planting Margarita Plants

When planting Margarita daisies in garden beds, begin by loosening the soil and enriching it with organic matter. Dig holes that are the same depth as the root ball and twice as wide. Space individual plants about 12 to 18 inches apart to ensure they have adequate room to grow and to promote good air circulation.

After placing the plant in the hole, the top of the root ball should be level with the surrounding soil. Backfill the hole with the amended soil, gently tamping it down to remove air pockets. Water the new planting thoroughly to settle the soil around the roots, and for the first couple of weeks, daily watering helps the plant establish a strong root system.

For container planting, select a pot that has adequate drainage holes at the bottom. As with garden plantings, ensure the top of the root ball is level with the surface of the potting mix and water it well after planting.

Pruning for Continuous Blooms

To keep a Margarita plant producing flowers all season, a regular pruning practice known as deadheading is recommended. This involves the removal of spent flowers once they begin to fade. By snipping off these old blooms, you prevent the plant from putting energy into developing seeds and instead redirect that energy toward producing new buds, which extends the blooming period.

When deadheading, cut the entire stem of the faded flower back to a point just above a set of healthy leaves or a visible new bud. Using clean, sharp scissors or small pruners will create a clean cut and minimize damage to the plant.

Beyond deadheading, light trimming or pinching back the stems can encourage a bushier, more compact growth habit. This is especially effective early in the growing season to prevent the plant from becoming leggy. If a plant starts to look overgrown or sparse in mid-summer, shearing it back lightly can stimulate new branching and a fresh flush of flowers.

Common Pests and Problems

Margarita plants can sometimes encounter issues with pests. The most common culprits include aphids, leafminers, and thrips. A strong spray of water from a hose is often enough to dislodge pests like aphids, while more persistent infestations may require an application of insecticidal soap or neem oil.

One of the most frequent problems is the yellowing of leaves. This is often a sign of overwatering or poor soil drainage, which leads to root rot. If you notice yellowing leaves, check the soil moisture and ensure the plant is not sitting in water.

A lack of flowers is another potential problem, which is almost always linked to insufficient sunlight as detailed in the care requirements. If your plant appears healthy but is not flowering, consider moving it to a sunnier location. A temporary pause in blooming can also be caused by extreme heat.