Montauk Daisy – Rooting and Transplanting

Q: I’ve rooted some cuttings from a neighbor’s Montauk daisies and they’re now going dormant. Should I leave them in their little flower pots all winter?

A: Montauk daisy, Nipponanthemum nipponicum, is usually perennial here but transplanting the little ones depends on how well the root system has developed. If the roots fill the pots, transplant to a sheltered location outdoors for winter, then move to a permanent spot in spring. If the roots are still tiny, it’s best to keep them indoors. Like most daisies and chrysanthemums, this plant sprawls if left untrimmed. Once established, cut it back to six inches in late April and to twelve inches in July. The white flowers will be produced on compact stalks in fall.