Shasta Daisies Lose Their Flower Petals And Do Not Fully Bloom

Question From: P. Goostree - Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, United States
Q: I have Shasta daisies.. planted this spring..the blooms show white petals..but before they can open..they are totally gone and its just the gold center of the daisy..then it turns really dark..is something eating these?? what is my problem..I really love daisies and they look healthy but never fully blooom

A: I believe your daisies have a chronic disease called asters yellow. Sadly there is no cure, so dig them up and dispose of them in the trash. The disease is spread by leaf hoppers so I would not replant them or any member of the aster family in your garden this season. Best And Happy Yardening, Nancy