Pyrethrum is an excellent companion plant as it repels a wide variety of pests, including mosquitoes, aphids, spider mites, and whiteflies. To use pyrethrum as an insecticide, the dried flower heads are ground into a fine powder and mixed with water to create a spray solution. This solution can be sprayed directly onto plants or used to treat indoor spaces.
When used as a spray containing pyrethrins, can be harmful to bees and other beneficial insects. These compounds can affect the nervous system of insects, including bees and other pollinators.
However, when the flowers are in their natural state, the concentration of pyrethrins is typically lower and may not pose as much risk to beneficial insects.
When to Plant Pyrethrum Daisy Seeds
To grow pyrethrum, it is best to start with seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before the last frost in spring. Once the seedlings have sprouted, they can be transplanted outdoors in a location with full sun and well-draining soil. Pyrethrum is a hardy plant and can withstand temperatures down to -5°C, but it prefers a moderate temperature range of 15-24°C.
How to Plant Pyrethrum Daisy Seeds
Plant them in sunny locations: Pyrethrum flowers need full sun to grow well. By planting them in a sunny location, you can help maximize the potency of the mosquito-repelling compounds.
Pyrethrum daisies can tolerate strong sun and heat. They prefer full sun to partial shade and thrive in warm climates. However, they may benefit from some protection during extreme heat to prevent stress and wilting. Providing adequate moisture and mulching around the plants can help them cope with high temperatures.
Plant them in groups: Mosquitoes are attracted to carbon dioxide, which is produced when we exhale. By planting Pyrethrum flowers in groups, you create a larger area of carbon dioxide production, which can help repel mosquitoes more effectively.
How to Care Pyrethrum Daisy
Keep the Pyrethrum plants healthy by watering them regularly and fertilizing them every few weeks. Healthy plants are more likely to produce effective mosquito-repelling compounds.
