Gerbera Cultivation

Gerbera daisies come in all shapes and colors

Gerbera daisies are one of the most commonly cultivated and one of the most important flowers, around the world. According to Preesman B.V., a cultivation company, this success is due to the "wide range in color and shape of the flower." Gerbera flowers are not particularly difficult to care for, but they do have specific requirements and situations that they grow best in. Gerbera flowers grow best in pots that are well cared for.

Soil

Gerbera daisies require a good water/air balance in the soil, so a peat mix, especially a coco peat mix, are recommended. Mix in perlite so that it is 40 percent of the soil, which will help with drainage and air flow in the soil. To aid in draining, it is recommended to place coco peat fiber or clay at the bottom of the pot to ease drainage.

Water

As with most plant cultivation, drip irrigation is the best method for watering gerbera flowers, because each flower will receive the same amount of water. Also, with drip irrigation, only the soil is getting wet, not the plant, which will help to prevent rot and water damage to the plant itself. The soil should always be moist, but wet soil can rot the plant, so careful watering is essential.

Heat

Gerbera's optimal growing temperature is 75 degrees F. However, having the temperature between 61 and 70 degrees F during the day and 56 to 65 degrees F during the night, will allow the plant to grow adequately. Freezing temperatures can immediately kill the plant. During the cold months of the year, only water the plant when the soil is dry, so that you can prevent freezing conditions.

Pests and Diseases

Most gerbera plants do not suffer from pests and diseases, but over watering and excessively wet conditions can increase the likelihood of insects and disease. Watch for aphids and whiteflies on the undersides of leaves on a weekly basis. To get rid of insects, you can use soapy water or an insecticide.

Picking Flowers

The average Gerbera begins flowering 8 to 12 weeks after it has been planted. The plants can be harvested two to three times per week, however, most cultivators harvest 3 times each week to ensure uniformity in the picked flowers. It is best to pick the flowers off by hand instead of cutting them off, because cutting can leave behind a small piece of the plant which will rot and can infect the plant.

References

• "Gerbera Cultivation Guide": Preesman B.V. The Netherlands:
• AA-florist.com: Growing Gerbera daisies