Master Gerbera Daisy Growth
Gerbera daisies, native to South Africa, belong to the Asteraceae family. Today’s varieties are hybrids, known for their vibrant blooms. These flowers come in four classes: single, semi-double, double, and spider flowers.
In warmer climates, Gerbera daisies grow as perennials, returning each year. However, in colder regions, they are treated as annuals and planted in spring after the last frost.
These flowers grow at a moderate pace. They usually bloom within 14 to 18 weeks and continue to flower throughout the summer.
gerbera daisy care
If you live in a colder region, it’s best to buy nursery-grown starter plants. Gerbera daisies can also be grown from seed, though they develop slowly. For best results, start seeds indoors in late winter or early spring. This is more practical in warmer climates, where frosts won’t harm the plants.
Here are the essential care requirements for Gerbera daisies:
- Choose a location with full sun to partial shade, especially in the hot afternoon hours.
- Plant in soil that is rich in organic matter and slightly acidic. Keep the crown of the plant about ½ inch above the soil.
- Water regularly when newly planted. For established plants, aim for about 1 inch of water per week.
- Feed monthly in spring and summer with a water-soluble fertilizer.
- Remove spent blooms (deadheading) to encourage more flowers.
soil and waterings
Gerbera daisies prefer rich, well-drained soil with a pH of 5.5 to 6.5. Too high or low a pH causes yellowing leaves or black spots. Water the plants weekly, ensuring the soil is dry about an inch or two below the surface. During dry spells, water more often, but reduce watering in winter when the plants are dormant.
temperature humidity and fertilizer
Gerbera daisies thrive in USDA zones 8–10. They grow best in cool winters around 45°F to 50°F. These flowers don’t have special humidity needs.
Fertilize every two weeks in spring and summer with a phosphorus-rich fertilizer. Alternatively, spread compost around the plants monthly
propagating gerbera and planting from seed
Gerbera daisies can be propagated through cuttings, divisions, or seeds. For cuttings, take them in summer and dip them in rooting hormone before planting. Keep them in indirect sunlight and water when the soil feels dry. When dividing plants in early spring, ensure the root ball is split into parts and replant each part at the same depth.
Start Gerbera daisy seeds indoors 12 to 18 weeks before the last frost date. Press the seeds gently onto the soil, and cover with plastic to keep the soil moist. After 2 to 4 weeks, transplant the seedlings outdoors when the danger of frost has passed.
potting, repotting and overwintering
Repot Gerbera daisies every 1-2 years in spring before new growth starts. Use a pot one size larger than the current one and ensure it has good drainage. Remove the plant from its pot, trim any damaged roots, and replant with fresh soil.
In zones 8–10, cut back Gerbera daisies to about 1 inch above soil before the first frost. In cooler zones, dig up the plants, pot them, and move them to a cool room for winter.
common pests, diseases and encouraging blooms
Aphids, spider mites, and whiteflies are common pests. Regularly inspect plants for pests and remove them with a water spray or insecticidal soap. For fungal diseases like powdery mildew, remove affected parts and ensure good air circulation.
To help Gerbera daisies bloom longer, remove excess foliage and avoid excessive heat. Fertilize regularly with a high-phosphorus fertilizer to promote more flowers.
